Disposal of Solid Waste in Tanning Industry by Vermicomposting Method

In the tanning process, large quantities of solid wastes are generated. The solid wastes consist of salt, waste hair, waste lime, waste flesh, myrob dust, buffing dust and trimming waste. In the present study an attempt has been made to convert the tannery solid wastes into manure after segregating salt, waste hair and waste lime by the process of vermicomposting. The initial composting process is necessary to convert the solid process wastes into a feedable material for earthworms. In the second stage earth worm species Perionyx excavatus were introduced. After introducing worms, total number of worms and Biomass per square foot were measured at the end of 15 days, 30 days, 45 days and 60 days. To evaluate the manure value of the vermicompost macro nutrient element like iron, manganese, zinc and copper, C:N ratio were tested. The tested value showed that the compost possessed a high manure value. Appropriate controls were maintained simultaneously without worms for a period of 60 days. The results obtained from the present study indicated that the earthworm P. excavatus was able to convert Tannery solid waste into nutrient-enriched products.