MICROBIAL-ASSISTED SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT-A CIRCULAR ECONOMY APPROACHDURGA M., KRISHNAVENI N., RATHIKA R. AND DHANAKUMAR S.Abstract The soil contains a significant quantity of microbial life, including a vast range of bacteria, archaea, yeast, fungi, algae, and protozoa. They can thrive in harsh environments like hot springs, deep beneath rocks, and in subfreezing temperatures. However, although these biological communities are considered significant in sustaining a sustainable biosphere, roughly about 90 % of microorganisms significance remains unknown. The majority of the microorganisms that are often found in solid waste are bacteria and fungi. These species are collectively referred to as Solid Waste Microflora. They grow using the elements from the waste as their food. Municipal solid waste should be maintained in a satisfactory state before discharge to decrease biological activity, prevent or postpone the release of toxic substances into the environment, and decrease odor generation. Organic waste composting represents a bio-oxidation sequence, encompassing the mineralization and partial transformation of organic substances. This sequence results in an endproduct devoid of pathogens and phytotoxicity, while also inheriting certain humic characteristics. The local microbial population actively mediates the biodegradation and conversion process during composting. Identification of these microorganisms is necessary as they keep the flow of nutrients from one system to another. Composting also aids in waste disposal to a larger level and serves as an organic source of nutrients. To attain the objectives of sustainable waste management, waste generation must be minimized, waste materials must be recovered and recycled, and energy must always be recovered to preserve resources for the future. Recovering energy from abandoned waste has the potential to generate energy for communities, produce energy in industries, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) and other toxic air pollutants. |