Mantri Paradise's composting initiative turns waste into wealth | Fusion - WeRIndia

Residents of Mantri Paradise, located on Bannerghatta Main Road near Arekere Gate signal in Bengaluru, have embarked on an innovative project to convert their everyday waste into organic manure.

This initiative, led by Shanold Lobo and Raj Kumar, has produced nearly 60 kg of manure each month, saving the community around ₹15,000 on manure purchases.

The project began on April 1, with daily composting efforts involving diligent housekeeping staff who collected and processed biodegradable waste such as tea leaves, fruit peels, and vegetable scraps.

Over 45 days, this effort resulted in 64 kg of compost, which was sun-dried for five days before being used.

By implementing this composting project, Mantri Paradise has reduced its daily waste output from 280 kg to 200 kg, setting aside 60 to 70 kg specifically for composting.

Community members actively participated by segregating uncooked fruits and vegetable waste, contributing to a significant reduction in wet waste sent out.

They managed to compost 70% of their green waste. Next, the collected wet waste is placed in aerobins for 45 days to turn into compost.

A few members from the Indian Pollution Control Association guided the community in incorporating this routine. With support from the Apartments Owners’ Association members, the project has shown impressive results, producing 64 kg of nutrient-rich manure recently.

Twelve aerobins were installed, which not only reduced waste but also benefited the local environment.

The aerobins produce leachate water, which is used for plant irrigation, demonstrating the project’s eco-friendly impact.

Additionally, this initiative has eliminated unpleasant odours and insect issues, ensuring a clean environment for residents.

Inspired by Mantri Paradise’s success, other communities like Ranka Colony and MJR Residency in Whitefield have also started composting.

Mantri Paradise has implemented a colour-coded waste bin system for different types of waste.

The first harvest of Phase 2, which began on June 1, yielded 64 kg of manure. The compost is being sold at ₹30 per kg to generate revenue, which is used to sustain the project.

The community’s efforts have set a commendable example for sustainable living and environmental conservation.

Image Credit: Niwrat, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Image Reference: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Close_up_view_of_compost.jpg