Decomposing Face Masks with Medicinal Plants: Boosting Soil NPK Levels with Eisenia fetida

Decomposing Face Masks with Medicinal Plants: Boosting Soil NPK Levels with Eisenia fetida

🔬 Aims of the Study:
The primary objective of this research was to estimate the NPK (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium) levels produced when disposable face masks (FM) are decomposed alongside the medicinal plant Lagerstroemia speciosa (LS) using earthworms (Eisenia fetida). With the massive increase in face mask waste due to COVID-19, finding eco-friendly disposal methods is crucial. This study explores how vermicomposting can turn this waste into nutrient-rich soil!

🌍 Background:
The COVID-19 pandemic led to a surge in disposable face mask usage, creating a major environmental challenge. While essential for preventing virus spread, these masks contribute to pollution. This study investigates whether medicinal plants can enhance the decomposition process, improving soil fertility through vermicomposting.

🧪 Materials & Methods:

Location: PG and Research Toxicology Lab, Department of Zoology, Government Arts College, Coimbatore.

Experimental Setup: 5 groups with different compost mixtures:

T1 (Control) – Yard soil, cow dung, coir pith

T2 (KWCO) – Kitchen waste compost

T3 (FMCO) – Face mask + kitchen waste

T4 (LSCO) – Lagerstroemia speciosa compost

T5 (ESLS) – Earthworm + Lagerstroemia speciosa mix

Parameters Measured: Growth & reproduction rate of Eisenia fetida, NPK levels in soil.

📊 Key Findings:
✅ Earthworm Growth & Reproduction:

Highest reproduction in T4 (LSCO) and T5 (ESLS).

Lowest juvenile count in T2 & T3, showing face masks alone may slow reproduction.

🌱 NPK Levels:

Nitrogen (N): Highest in T4 (413.2±2.90), followed by T3 (404.3±1.78).

Phosphorus (P): Remarkably high in T5 (1011.3±2.59), even surpassing control (T1: 992.3±3.06).

Potassium (K): Highest in T1 (1900.3±1.18), but T4 & T5 still showed significant levels.

💡 Conclusion:

Medicinal plants (Lagerstroemia speciosa) significantly enhance earthworm growth and reproduction.

Face masks, when combined with medicinal plants, can be effectively decomposed, improving soil NPK levels.

Vermicomposting is a sustainable solution for managing face mask waste while boosting soil fertility!

🌿 Implications for Sustainable Agriculture:
This research highlights how organic waste (including face masks) can be converted into nutrient-rich compost, supporting eco-friendly farming and reducing environmental pollution.

🔗 Related Tags:
#Vermicomposting #SustainableAgriculture #FaceMaskWaste #NPK #SoilFertility #EiseniaFetida #MedicinalPlants #LagerstroemiaSpeciosa #EcoFriendly #WasteManagement #COVID19Waste #organicfarming

👍 Like, Share & Subscribe for more research insights on sustainable environmental solutions! 🌎♻️

TO READ OTHER SECTIONS OF THIS ARTICLE PLEASE VISIT: https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/crpbs/v1/2154

Vermicomposting
Face mask waste
NPK in soil
Eisenia fetida
Sustainable agriculture
Soil fertility
Medicinal plants in composting
Lagerstroemia speciosa
How to compost face masks
Earthworm composting benefits
Best plants for vermicomposting
Nitrogen phosphorus potassium in compost
Eco-friendly waste disposal
Red wiggler worms growth
Kitchen waste composting
Improving soil with earthworms
Biodegradable face masks
Pollution from disposable masks
COVID-19 waste management
Organic waste decomposition
Sustainable farming techniques
Organic farming nutrients
Waste to compost methods
Environmental impact of face masks
Best compost for soil fertility

Видео Decomposing Face Masks with Medicinal Plants: Boosting Soil NPK Levels with Eisenia fetida канала BP International