Project Title:

Waste Reduction by Converting Biodegradable Waste into Organic Fertilizer by Composting

Stage 1: Problem Identification

Problem Description:

Biodegradable waste dominates Granary's waste stream. Poor waste management practices harm
environment and health..Consequences include

• Soil and water pollution

• Greenhouse gas emissions

• Unpleasant odors and pest attraction

Statement of Intent:

Investigate biodegradable waste management in Granary through composting.

Main Idea

Biodegradable waste poses environmental and health risks if not properly managed.

Design Specification

Design a poster showing all stages in how compost system converts biodegradable waste into organic
fertilizer using:

-Plastic bins as containers

- Dried leaves

- Shredded newspaper

- Cardboard pieces

- Food waste

- Manure (animal waste)

- Grass clippings

Stage 2: Investigation of Related Ideas

I. Composting Biodegradable Waste

1. Reduces waste sent to landfills (up to 70% reduction)

2. Produces organic fertilizer for sustainable agriculture

3. Decreases greenhouse gas emissions from waste decomposition

4. Conserves water by improving soil's water retention

Disadvantages:

1. Initial investment for composting infrastructure

2. Space requirements for composting facilities

3. Odor and pest issues if not properly managed

II. Anaerobic Digestion of Biodegradable Waste

Advantages:

1. Produces biogas (methane and CO2) for energy generation

2. Reduces waste volume by up to 90%

-Kills pathogens through high temperatures

-Produces liquid fertilizer as byproduct

Disadvantages:

-High upfront costs for digestion equipment

-Complex operation and maintenance requirements

-Corrosive byproducts require special handling

III. Vermicomposting (Worm Composting)

Advantages:

-Space-efficient and odor-free operation

-Fast decomposition process 1-3 months to produce castings

-High-quality castings: Nutrient-rich fertilizer for plants

-Low maintenance: Easy to manage and maintain worm populations

-Pathogen reduction: Worms help kill pathogens in waste materials

-Pest control: Worms help control pest populations in compost

Disadvantages

-Initial investment: Worms and binning system require initial purchase

-Worm mortality: Worms require proper care to prevent mortality

-Limited waste types: Only certain organic wastes suitable for worm composting

-pH sensitivity: Worms sensitive to extreme pH levels in compost

-Temperature sensitivity: Worms sensitive to extreme temperatures

Stage 3: Generation of ideas

I. Vermicomposting with Solar-Powered Aeration

Advantages:

1. Space-efficient and odor-free operation

2. Fast decomposition process (1-3 months)

3. High-quality castings for plants

4. Low maintenance and year-round production

5. Solar power reduces electricity costs

Disadvantages:

1. Initial investment for worms, binning, and solar panel

2. Limited waste types suitable for worm composting

3. pH and temperature sensitivities

II. Aerobic Composting with Automated Turning

Advantages:

1. Low initial investment for binning and materials

3. Suitable for various organic waste types

4. Natural aeration reduces odors and pests

5. Automated turning saves time and labor

Disadvantages:

1. Slower decomposition process (3-6 months)

2. Higher upfront cost for automated turning system

3. Requires reliable electricity supply

III. Bokashi Composting with Microbial Inoculation

Advantages:

1. Fast decomposition process (1-2 months)

2. Suitable for meat, dairy, and pet waste

3. Microbial inoculation enhances decomposition

4. Low odor and pest attraction

5. Nutrient-rich fertilizer for plants

Disadvantages:

Higher upfront cost for bokashi bin and microbial inoculant

Requires drainage system to handle liquid effluent

Pathogen reduction not guaranteed without proper maintenance

Fruit flies and pests may still be attracted to bokashi waste

Chapter 4: Development of Chosen Idea

Chosen idea

Aerobic Composting with Automated Turning

Justification:
1. Cost-Effectiveness: Initial investment (£8,000) balanced by long-term benefits

2. Efficient Process: Automated turning saves time and labor, reducing costs

3. Scalability: Suitable for large quantities of organic waste in Granary

4. Odor and Pest Control: Natural aeration and regular turning minimize issues

5. Quality Compost:Consistent turning ensures uniform decomposition and quality

Refinement of the solution

1. Modular Bin Design:

- Easy expansion or reduction of composting capacity

- Simple maintenance and replacement of individual bins

2. Automated Turning System:

- Hydraulic or electric turning mechanisms for efficiency

- Programmable timers for regular turning schedules

3. Aeration Pipes:

- PVC or metal pipes for oxygen supply to compost

- Regular cleaning access points for pipe maintenance

4. Moisture Control

Chapter 5: Presentation of final solution

Design a poster showing all stages in how a compost system converts biodegradable waste into organic
fertilizer

Stage 6: Evaluation and recommendations

The aerobic composting with automated turning project in Granary was mostly successful with:

- 80% reduction in organic waste sent to landfills

- high-quality compost produced

- saved waste disposal costs

- Positive community responseto sustainable waste practices

challenges

included initial funding constraints, technical issues, and limited public awareness.

Recommendations

1. Secure Additional Funding for project expansion and technical upgrades

2. Improve Technical Infrastructure. Upgrade automated turning system for efficiency

3. *Enhance Public Awareness. outreach programs and educational campaigns

4. Explore Compost Markets: Develop strategies for compost sales to local farmers and gardeners

5. Monitor and Evaluate: Regularly assess project impact and identify areas for improvement

6. Collaborate with Stakeholders: Engage local government, businesses, and communities for sustained
support

7. Develop Contingency Plans: Prepare for potential challenges, such as equipment failures or market
fluctuations