Article Abstract

Journal of Agricultural Science and Food Technology

Research Paper|Published March 2020|Vol.6 (3):51-59

https://doi.org/10.36630/jasft_20005

 

 

A Pilot Study on the Potential for Household Composting in a Rural Community in Guyana

 

Cecil Boston1*, Omali Dare1, Deon Anderson2, Ubaldo Espinoza3

 

1Department of Environmental Science, Faculty of Earth and Environment Science, University of Guyana,Turkeyen Campus, Georgetown,Guyana. 

2Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, University of Guyana,Turkeyen Campus, Georgetown,Guyana. 

3Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Guyana,Turkeyen Campus, Georgetown,Guyana.

 

ABSTRACT

Industrial and other activities along with increased population growth have given rise to incremental challenges in solid waste management within Guyana. The challenges are similar to other small island developing states (SIDS) with limited land space being a major concern. Therefore, the need for sustainable and environmentally friendly means of eliminating or reducing the waste produced becomes necessary. Composting, therefore, can do this while adding value to the agricultural sector. The use of self-administered questionnaires was employed to collect data on factors that influence the amount and types of waste produced and to evaluate the level of knowledge of persons on the practice of composting. Waste materials were collected, separated, weighted and composted. The results revealed that household size significantly influenced the amount of waste produced. Only 22% of the persons had very good knowledge of the practice of composting. The compost revealed high levels of Nitrogen, Phosphorous and Potassium. In conclusion, several methods of composting were recommended to persons to increase awareness. The nutrient quality of the compost produced can add great value to agricultural produce if applied correctly.

 

Keywords: Household composting, Solid waste management, Rural Community, Environmental Science, Environmental Management.

 

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