Vermicomposting of lignocellulosic waste: A biotechnological tool for waste management

Abstract

Rapid urbanization and increment in global population have resulted in huge waste mass generation. A significant portion of solid waste is biodegradable in nature, of which a considerable fraction is lignocellulosic biomass. Lignocellulosic wastes are mainly generated by agricultural and industrial activities. Presently, this huge biomass has no gainful use and it is adding to environmental degradation. Several physical, chemical, and biological methods have been used for the management of lignocellulosic waste. These methods include landfilling, incineration, pyrolysis, gasification, recycling, material recovery, composting, and so on. But each method has its own limitations. Sustainable biological waste management methods are to protect environment and conserve natural resources. Vermicomposting is one such kind of organic matter management process. Lignocellulosic waste due to high biodegradability and moisture content are ideal feedstock for earthworms. Vermicomposting can be utilized for the conversion of lignocellulosic wastes into vermicompost and earthworm biomass. Various studies conducted on the management of lignocellulosic waste using vermicomposting are reviewed in this chapter.