Circular Waste Management Through Bokashi and Trichoderma Composting of Market Fruit and Vegetable Wastes
Abstract:
Market waste management remains a pressing environmental and socio-economic challenge, particularly in de veloping countries where open dumping and landfilling remain the dominant methods of disposal. Fruit and veg etable residues constitute a major portion of municipal solid waste and, when unmanaged, contribute to methane emissions, foul odors, pest infestations, and contamination of surface and groundwater. To address this challenge, this study investigates the potential of integrating bokashi fermentation and Trichoderma-assisted composting as a dual microbial strategy for converting biodegradable market waste into high-quality organic fertilizer. Four treatments with varying ratios of bokashi, Trichoderma, and market waste were tested to determine their effects on decomposition rate, temperature trends, nutrient availability, and fertilizer yield. The composting process was closely monitored, and the resulting organic fertilizers were analyzed for macronutrients and organic matter con tent. The fertilizers were applied to mustard greens (Brassica juncea), and soil health was evaluated before and after application. Results revealed that Treatment 3 (10% bokashi, 30% Trichoderma, 60% waste) produced the highest fertilizer yield and nutrient content, while Treatment 1 (30% bokashi, 10% Trichoderma) promoted supe rior mustard growth. The synergy between bokashi and Trichoderma accelerated decomposition, reduced green house gas emissions, and improved soil properties. This study demonstrates the viability of bokashi–Trichoderma composting as a scalable, low-cost, and environmentally sustainable waste management strategy. It further em phasizes its role in mitigating pollution, enhancing soil fertility, and reducing dependence on synthetic fertilizers. Recommendations for policy support, infrastructure development, and community adoption are also proposed to promote large-scale implementation.
