9.4 Conclusion
The large amounts of FVW generated during the whole food supply chain should be
treated, recycled, and recovered properly. The vermicomposting is considered as one
of the most sustainable methods for the treatment of FVW. However, the
vermicomposting of fresh FVW without any pretreatment still has some problems
due to the higher water content and C/N ratio of FVW. The addition of EAS could be
a feasible option to solve the problems and enhance the vermicomposting of FVW.
The EAS can promote the growth and cocoon production of earthworms and the
microbial activity, thus enhancing the decomposition efficiency of FVW. Moreover,
the content of nitrogen and phosphorus in final product as fertilizer can also be
improved by the addition of EAS.
0.0
0.2
0.4
0.6
0.8
1.0
1.2
Banana peels
Cabbage
Lettuce
Carrot
Potato
EAS
Mass reduction rate (g/day)
FVW
EAS
FVW + EAS
Fig. 9.3 Mass reduction rate of substrates used for vermicomposting. FVW fruit and vegetable
wastes, EAS excess activated sludge
9 Vermicomposting Treatment of Fruit and Vegetable Waste and the Effect of the. . .
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