Research on a circular economy model for biodegradable organic components treatment in municipal solid waste at a household-scale

Abstract

Abstract Since biodegradable components form a major amount of household municipal solid waste (MSW), this study investigated a model of biodegradable organic waste treatment at home scale in order to recycle them into organic fertilizers. The experimental design was carried out in a perforated plastic bin (capacity = 18L) with 2 different models, with and without Trichoderma microbial product (TMP), in order to evaluate the effect of microbial product on the decomposition process and fertilizer quality. The monitored parameters for both models showed a similar trend of changes during the decomposition, however in the model with TMP, it was found that the decomposition process took place faster. The properties included pH (6.2–7.6), temperature (29–44 °C), and moisture content (47–63%). Two models were well matured within 1 month. Fertilizer products are used to grow mung beans (Vigna Radiata). They help in fast-growing plants (height from 20 to 22cm) with good green leaves (leaves width from 3-5 cm). Overall, the model has the potential to be broadly applied, helping to reduce the amount of MSW to be treated, saving costs, and creating a closed cycle towards a circular economy model.