Organic Waste Valorization through Composting as Part of a Circular Economy

Abstract

Organic solid waste management is a significant challenge given environmental and sustainability concerns. Organic waste, including food residues, plant materials, agricultural waste, and other biological components, makes up a large portion of human-generated waste. Effective management of this waste is a priority for governments and businesses to reduce its ecological footprint and exploit its potential. Composting organic waste is an essential practice with numerous benefits for agriculture and the environment, turning waste into nutrient-rich compost that improves soil structure and health, reduces waste, decreases greenhouse gas emissions, and promotes sustainable agriculture.Olive pomace, the residue from olive oil extraction, is rich in fibers, residual oil, and polyphenols. When composted with other organic materials, it produces compost that enhances soil structure, water retention, and provides essential nutrients to plants. Household organic waste, such as food scraps and fruit and vegetable peelings, decomposes into compost rich in organic matter and nutrients, improving soil quality and structure. Poultry manure, high in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, stabilizes nutrients and reduces pathogens when composted, producing balanced, nutrient-rich compost that enhances soil fertility and promotes healthy crop growth. Green waste, such as leaves and grass clippings, also benefits from composting, producing compost rich in organic matter that improves soil structure, increases water retention, and supplies essential nutrients to plants.Composting organic waste reduces waste, enriches soils, and supports sustainable agriculture by transforming olive pomace, household waste, poultry manure, and green waste into valuable compost. This practice reduces dependence on chemical fertilizers, contributing to sustainable farming and reducing water pollution caused by nutrient runoff. Organic waste valorization through composting is crucial in the circular economy, turning waste into valuable resources, reducing raw material needs, lowering waste management costs, and promoting sustainability. Studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of composts as soil amendments, reducing waste volume and management costs.

Keywords

• Composting
• Organic waste valorization
• Circular economy
• Environmental management
• Sustainable agriculture.

References

1. Doughmi, A., Cherkaoui, E., Khamar, M. & Nounah, A. (2024). Organic waste valorization through composting as part of a circular economy. The Eurasia Proceedings of Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (EPSTEM), 29, 210-218.