Composting: A Sustainable Route for Processing of Biodegradable Waste in India

Abstract

Surging populations, coupled with the ever-increasing demand for sustenance, have led to the generation of behemoth proportions of wastes throughout the globe. The processing of such a considerable amount of waste has raised concerns for environmental planners, policymakers, and researchers in regard to maintaining sustainability. Biodegradable waste is a part of the total waste stream. Consideration should be given to the importance of making better use of biodegradable waste. The technology that is adopted for the management of biodegradable waste should be ecologically sustainable and cost-effective, as well as beneficial to social well-being. The most efficient way of managing biodegradable waste must include different methods for the optimal utilisation of such waste, ranging from the small scale (single household) to the very large scale (entire city). Amid all the other waste processing technologies, composting stands out as a most potent option because of its ability to maintain and restore soil fertility, along with the transformation of waste into a resource. Composting is one of the few technologies which has a benefit-cost ratio higher than 1 at all scales of operation. This chapter analyses the most significant aspects of the composting process, including the recent developments and dynamics involved in it. The chapter discusses various aspects of composting via analysis of the integrated waste management system and composting-related projects implemented at the community level in the Indian context. Finally, the chapter presents policies and the efforts put in place by the Government of India with the aim of encouraging composting practice and related activities.