Conditional Composting of Cowdung, Sawdust and Straw Husk as a Treatment Approach to Slaughterhouse Menace

Abstract

Aim: The study aimed at Investigating of suitability of composting process in treatment of slaughterhouse wastes. Study Design: The experimental set up was cylindrical bin design with C:N ratios at 30:1 each, and with turning frequencies at every 2 days intervals. Data was generated from the laboratory on the concentrations of selected heavy metals at varying depths of land discharged slaughterhouses. This was used to estimate the level of nutrient build-up in the soil within these environs. Methodology: Fresh cow dung was collected from Omuigwe slaughterhouse at Aluu, in Ikwere Local Government Area of Rivers State using sterile water rinsed containers. About 36kg of cow dung was collected in each of the three 0.18m3 cylindrical container. Three piles of fresh cow dung were built in a cylindrical design of diameter 0.54 m and height of 0.84 m. Each pile was turned manually using a hand shovel. The MC was measured periodically (precisely every 15 days) and turning operation was in such a way to ensure that every part is well aerated. Results: Compost results showed high wastes volume reduction ranging from 36.67%, 66.4% and 63.3% for CD, CDSD and CDSH; also, weight reduction at the end of 90days showed a 55.51%, 67.42% and 64.38% reduction for CD, CDSD and CDSH respectively. Conclusion: The problems of waste generated in our slaughterhouses can be better managed and corrected if proper assessment of the amount of waste generated are properly documented. This would help in accurate prediction of the best method to manage the waste generated.