Manual de compostagem em pequena escala: estudo de caso em uma creche de Fortaleza/CE

Abstract

Small-scale composting is a solution that can be used in Brazilian urban centers, reducing the amount of organic waste that would be sent to landfills, increasing its useful life. In the present work, a case study of a small-scale in situ composting was carried out in a day care center in Fortaleza/CE. The objective of the work was to develop a compact and functional compost bin to be implemented in enterprises that wish to treat their organic waste internally, reducing the generation of waste generated. A composter operating manual was also prepared and important parameters related to the compost were analyzed throughout the composting process: temperature, humidity and C/N ratio. The compost bin was sized based on the generation of organic waste at the study site, in this case there were 34 employees and 140 children at the daycare center, totaling 178 individuals generating organic waste over eight hours a week. The proportion of crushed tree pruning related to the 1:1.5 ratio of organic waste and pruning, respectively, was also taken into account. A number of four composters with a unit volume of 725L were reached. Training was carried out with day care center employees regarding the separation of organic fractions in the kitchen and the operation of the compost bin. In the beginning operational problems were observed, but they were soon corrected. The analyzes and monitoring of the parameters were carried out through visits to the study site and collection of samples throughout the composting process, in general, the parameters of the compost remained within the limits established in the literature and in accordance with Conama Resolution No. 481/2017 and Normative Institution No. 61/2020 of MAPA. With the present work, it was possible to verify that the composting manual was effective regarding the final quality of the compost, and the operation of the composter was satisfactory during the process. For commercialization of the compound, more detailed analyzes must be carried out in accordance with Normative Instruction No. 61/2020 of MAPA.