Composting of Organic Waste at an Agricultural Research Center

The use of composting to manage organic waste at an agricultural research center was investigated. The effectiveness of controlled composting (with rotation and irrigation) and natural composting was compared. Over a period of 120 days, tests were conducted on two composting beds using different materials (soy straw, wheat straw, tree prunings, and combinations thereof). Variables such as temperature, humidity, pH, carbon and nitrogen content, as well as reduction in mass and volume, were evaluated. The controlled treatments maintained appropriate humidity, exhibited a milder thermophilic phase, and achieved greater reduction in mass and volume. pH values remained neutral in all cases, and a decrease in the carbon/nitrogen ratio was observed, indicating the formation of mature compost. In summary, controlled composting proved to be more efficient in transforming organic matter during the 120-day study period, regardless of the types of waste used.