Thesis (MSc) - Cyprus International University. Institute of Graduate Studies and Research Environmental Sciences

This study intends to discover the characteristics of solid vermicompost obtained as a result of domestic food waste fed to Red California worms. The nutrient level may be assessed by conducting a systematic analysis which involves a set of experiments, data collection, analysis and conclusion.
Composting and vermicomposting are two of the most well-known environmentally friendly procedures for recycling a wide range of harmful and organic wastes. Vermicomposting is the method of using earthworms to transform organic matter into vermicompost, a humus-like substance rich in a variety of vital plant nutrients. “Vermi” is the Latin for “worm”. Vermicomposting is a biotechnological method in which earthworms collaborate with various bacteria to convert bioactive chemicals into a nutrient-rich humus.
The experiment involved monitoring and recording data from multiple boxes, each representing different environmental conditions, to assess the impact of temperature, moisture, light, and pH on the characteristics of solid vermicompost. The purpose of the study was not to produce Vermicompost, but to increase the number of worms and monitor specific parameters. Nutrient content includes C/N, TKN, TP, TOC, magnesium, calcium, potassium, phosphorus, and ammonium. The following are heavy metals; iron, manganese, copper, nickel, chromium, zinc, cadmium, and mercury.
Temperature influences microbial activity and the decomposition of organic matter. The pH levels recorded during the experiment ranged from 7.0 to 8.0, with most observations falling around 7.5. These pH ranges are generally favourable for vermicomposting, as they support the growth of beneficial microbes responsible for decomposition. The observations indicate that moisture levels were generally
iii
maintained within the normal range, with occasional wet or dry conditions. Normal moisture levels were found to promote effective decomposition and the development of a well-aerated compost matrix.
Low light conditions were consistently maintained throughout the experiment. While this helps control temperature and moisture, it is important to consider that light requirements may vary for different stages of the vermicomposting process. By understanding and controlling these factors, it is possible to create high-quality vermicompost that can be used as a nutritious organic fertilizer, supporting sustainable agriculture and waste management.
Heavy metal (Mn, Cu, Ni, Cr, Zn, Pb, Cd, Hg, Fe) content values as well as nutrient content (TKN, K, Ca, TP, TOC, C/N) were found to be within the required standard ranges for both R1 and R2 with the exception of two outliers being Mg and Ammonium content. Results for R1 for Magnesium (Mg) was observed to be higher in comparison to minimum standard published values (min 8900mg/kg) however R2 showed a lower value than the min standard. Ammonium content for R1 was below maximum published standard value (max 500mg/kg) while R2 showed higher than the standard.
Future research can continue to evaluate the optimization of these factors and evaluate their specific effects on vermicompost properties. Additionally, studying the long-term effects of vermicompost application on plant growth, soil health, and environmental sustainability will provide valuable insight into its benefits.