Why use worm farms for waste management?
There are many reasons worm farms make good waste management systems including:-
- Worms are able to process organic waste 4 times quicker than conventional compost methods
- Worm castings are rich in beneficial microbes and nutrients making the product superior to conventional compost fertilizers
- Low start-up and operation costs
- Small amount of space and access to water required
- No turning, no unpleasant odours. The worms do all the processing, naturally.
- Can be used in a rotational system so that dormant beds are used to grow vegetables/ flowers while other beds are in use.
- Worm castings conserves moisture and improves soil conditions which is of vital importance in Western Australia’s dry climate.
- Castings enhance plant growth and increase crop yields.
- Decentralised waste management systems reduce dependence on councils and can save on transportation and processing costs.
- Removes organic matter from the waste stream. Household waste can be reduced by up to 40 percent!
- Reduces dependence on artificial (petroleum-based) fertilizers