Waste to wealth- vermicompost & biotechnological approach to biomaterials By S Jananipriya Assistant professor Department of Biotechnology Value-added course
TABLE OF CONTENTS Introduction to Waste Management & Vermi Composting Practical – Vermi Composting Setup & Monitoring Biotechnological Approach to Biomaterials Practical – Biomaterial Extraction & Development Applications & Career Opportunities
COURSE OVERVIEW This course explores vermi composting and biomaterial production from waste, focusing on sustainable management and biotechnology applications. Students will learn composting techniques, biomaterial synthesis, and hands-on lab practices to convert organic waste into valuable products. The course integrates theory, practical demonstrations, and industry relevance, preparing students for careers in environmental biotechnology and sustainable materials.
COURSE OBJECTIVES To l earn waste management strategies for sustainable utilization. To g ain expertise in vermicomposting techniques and quality assessment. To e xplore microbial and enzymatic methods for biomaterial production. To develop analytical and laboratory skills for compost and biomaterials evaluation. To u nderstand industry applications, market potential, and placement opportunities.
COURSE PlAN Day 1: Introduction to Waste Management & Vermi Composting Overview of Waste to Wealth Concept Types of Organic Waste & Its Impact on the Environment
Introduction to Vermi Composting: Importance & Benefits
Vermicomposting Process: Role of Earthworms, Composting Conditions
Case Studies on Successful Waste Management Using Vermi Composting
Day 2:Practical – Vermi Composting Setup & Monitoring Selection of Earthworm Species for Composting (Eisenia fetida , Eudrilus eugeniae , etc.) Step-by-Step Vermi Composting Setup (Bedding, Moisture Control, Temperature) Demonstration: Setting Up a Vermi Compost Bin & Adding Organic Waste Monitoring Parameters: pH, Temperature, Moisture Content, Decomposition Rate
Day 3 Biotechnological Approach to Biomaterials Introduction to Biomaterials: Biopolymers, Bio-composites, and Bio-based Plastics Waste as a Source for Biomaterial Production (Agricultural, Food, Industrial Waste) Bioconversion of Waste into Biodegradable Polymers Applications of Biomaterials in Industry (Food Packaging, Medical, Agriculture)
Day 4: Practical – Biomaterial Extraction & Development Laboratory Demonstration: Extracting Biopolymers from Organic Waste Techniques for Biomaterial Synthesis: Gelatin , Starch-based Bioplastics, etc. Quality Testing of Biomaterials (Tensile Strength, Biodegradability, Water Resistance) Hands-on Activity: Developing a Small-Scale Biomaterial Product
Day 5: Applications, Career Opportunities & Assessment (2 hours) Real-World Applications of Vermi Composting & Biomaterials in Industry
Case Studies & Successful Startups in Waste-to-Wealth Innovations
Career Opportunities in Environmental Biotechnology & Sustainable Manufacturing
Interactive Q&A, Feedback & Course Assessment (Quiz or Hands-on Evaluation)
INTRODUCTION What is Waste to Wealth? Waste to Wealth is the concept of converting waste materials into valuable resources, products, or energy. It focuses on recycling, reusing, and repurposing waste to reduce environmental impact while generating economic benefits. This approach aligns with the principles of sustainability and circular economy. Examples of Waste to Wealth Initiatives: Recycling & Upcycling – Converting plastic, glass, or paper waste into new products. Composting – Transforming organic waste into nutrient-rich fertilizer. Waste-to-Energy – Using waste materials to generate electricity, biofuel, or biogas . INTRODUCTION