Case study
Compost from organic bio solids – Production, socioeconomics and impact on soil productivity. Final report on compost research
The purpose of the publication is to provide a brief scientific overview and guidance to the government and researchers on the positive results of composting, recommending that they adopt a policy that encourages composting from organic waste, and demonstrating that the expected impact of compost production and its use in agriculture can be viewed from different angles.
The organic fraction of the bio-solid waste is utilized as a resource to produce compost. The production process allows the organic part of the waste to be eliminated from the traditional disposal channel (landfill), in order to create an environmentally compatible waste management system.
Production of compost enhances the economic growth potential of the local economy in Mafraq Governorate by promoting private sector enterprise development and stimulating decent green job creation in an environmentally sustainable manner.
The suitable venue for the application of produced compost is rangelands, to improve the physical and chemical properties of poor soils. This improvement will be reflected in the enhancing diversity, productivity and quality of rangeland forage plants. Pastoral animal production will benefit from this.
The main objective of the compost research was to improve the livelihoods of rural communities and reduce hazards to the environment in Mafraq Governorate. The compost research consisted of three main activities: i) carrying out a socioeconomic survey in Mafraq Governorate to assess the use of organic fertilizers in agriculture; ii) conducting trials to produce quality compost from organic solid wastes and liquid sludge generated at Zaatari camp; and iii) conducting trials on using the produced compost as a soil conditioner for growing some selected forest, rangeland, and forage plants.