How to Turn Organic Waste Into Animal Feed and Fertilizer

Turning Organic Waste Into Animal Feed and Fertilizer

Waste has always been a persistent problem in many sectors, including agriculture. Besides being an eyesore, waste often leads to environmental issues. Organic waste, if not processed properly, can cause new problems, like foul odors and unpleasant sights.

Thankfully, more people are now aware of the importance of managing organic waste. Various initiatives focus on waste management, including transforming organic waste into animal feed and fertilizer. This method not only reduces waste impact but also offers significant profits if done seriously.

How to Process Organic Waste?

Processing organic waste can be done in both urban and rural areas. You don’t need to worry too much about sorting the waste, as organic waste can naturally decompose in the soil. Most of this waste comes from vegetables and other plant materials.

You can easily find organic waste in many places, and its volume is increasing in cities like Bandung, Denpasar, Jakarta, and Surabaya. The daily waste volume in these cities can reach up to 26,000 cubic meters, with 60-70% of it being organic waste. This situation presents a great opportunity if you approach it seriously.

How to Market Organic Waste Products?

Marketing products made from organic waste is quite easy. This is partly because conventional feed sources, like green grass, are becoming scarce. Also, more farmers are becoming aware that not all green feed sources are beneficial; some can even cause environmental issues and lack the nutritional content found in organic, processed feed.

Nowadays, farmers realize that organic feed offers higher nutritional value and lower fiber content, making it easier for animals to digest. This feed can even increase animal weight by up to 700 grams per day—240% higher than conventional feed.

What About Using Organic Waste for Fertilizer?

Using organic waste for fertilizer is also highly beneficial. The popularity of organic fertilizer is growing in many places because it doesn’t damage soil structure. Plants can thrive better with organic fertilizer. By focusing on this area, you contribute significantly to the environment by turning waste into quality products without harming nature.

Why is organic fertilizer good for plants? Organic fertilizer, especially when fermented, is rich in carbohydrates and proteins. It has lower crude fiber content and higher palatability, making it an excellent choice for soil and plants.

Easy Steps to Make Organic Fertilizer

Making organic fertilizer is straightforward. You only need to follow seven steps: sorting the waste, chopping, fermenting, drying, and finally, pelleting. For more detailed information, you can read Suprio Guntoro’s book, “Membuat Pakan Ternak dan Kompos dari Limbah Organik”. This book provides comprehensive insights into converting organic waste into feed and fertilizer, along with theories on waste management.

Conclusion

If you’re keen and observant, you can turn anything around you into profit, including the organic waste in your environment. So, what are you waiting for? Why not give it a try?