The Effectiveness Of EM4 And MOL As Activators In Making Compost From Household Vegetable Waste (garbage) Using The 2016 Tatakura Method
The Effectiveness of EM4 and MOL as Activators in Making Compost from Household Vegetable Waste (Garbage) Using the 2016 Tatakura Method
Introduction
Waste management is a significant problem faced by many countries, including Indonesia. The increasing amount of waste produced daily poses a threat to the environment and public health. In Medan, the Central Statistics Agency recorded that the volume of waste produced reached 1,061 tons per day in 2015, with 70-80% of the total waste being household organic waste. This study aims to produce compost from household waste using EM4 and MOL activators through the Tatakura method with the treatment of seven baskets.
Background of the Study
Waste is one of the serious problems faced in Indonesia, both by the government and the community. Data in 2013 showed that global waste reached 2.2 billion tons per year. The increasing amount of waste produced daily poses a threat to the environment and public health. In Medan, the Central Statistics Agency recorded that the volume of waste produced reached 1,061 tons per day in 2015, with 70-80% of the total waste being household organic waste. The average waste produced per person ranged from 0.5 to 0.6 kg per day.
Research Methodology
The research design applied is Quasi experiment, where comparative comparative data compost is assessed based on pH parameters, temperature, and humidity from the beginning of the process to compost. In addition, laboratory analysis is also carried out to measure the content of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. The study aims to produce compost from household waste using EM4 and MOL activators through the Tatakura method with the treatment of seven baskets.
Results and Discussion
The results showed that the use of activators of EM4, MOL, and without activators showed a difference in the time of compost maturation, namely each for 11 days, 13 days, and 16 days. The resulting compost, in terms of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium content, has met the standards set by SNI 19-7030-2004. The average nitrogen content for mole treatment is 0.52-0.56%, with a phosphorus of 0.21% and potassium 0.30-0.32%. Conversely, the EM4 activator gives nitrogen levels of 0.51-0.53%, phosphorus 0.20%, and potassium 0.29-0.31%. Without treatment, the average nitrogen level is 0.44%, phosphorus 0.20%, and potassium 0.29%.
Conclusion
Seeing these results, it can be concluded that the use of mole activators is more effective than EM4 and without activators in the process of making compost. This shows the great potential of the use of local microorganisms in managing household organic waste more efficiently. The use of mole activators can reduce the time of compost maturation and increase the content of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in the compost.
Recommendations
From this finding, it is advisable to the local government to conduct counseling and training to the public regarding how to make compost using the method of rolling from household waste. This approach not only helps reduce the volume of waste produced, but also provides benefits in the form of compost that can be used to improve soil quality and support sustainable agriculture. With the right education, people will be better able to manage their waste and turn them into valuable resources.
Future Research Directions
Further research is needed to explore the potential of using local microorganisms in managing household organic waste. The study can be replicated in different locations to confirm the findings and to identify the factors that affect the effectiveness of the mole activators. Additionally, the study can be extended to explore the potential of using the compost produced from household waste as a fertilizer in agriculture.
Limitations of the Study
The study has some limitations. The study was conducted in a small scale, and the results may not be generalizable to other locations. Additionally, the study only used two types of activators, EM4 and MOL, and did not explore the potential of using other types of activators. Further research is needed to confirm the findings and to identify the factors that affect the effectiveness of the mole activators.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the study found that the use of mole activators is more effective than EM4 and without activators in the process of making compost from household waste. The study highlights the great potential of using local microorganisms in managing household organic waste. The findings of the study can be used to inform policy and practice in waste management and to promote sustainable agriculture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Effectiveness of EM4 and MOL as Activators in Making Compost from Household Vegetable Waste (Garbage) Using the 2016 Tatakura Method
Q: What is the Tatakura method?
A: The Tatakura method is a composting method that uses a combination of microorganisms and physical processes to break down organic waste into a nutrient-rich compost. The method involves mixing the waste with microorganisms, such as EM4 and MOL, and then allowing it to decompose over a period of time.
Q: What are EM4 and MOL?
A: EM4 and MOL are types of microorganisms that are commonly used as activators in composting. EM4 is a type of effective microorganism that is specifically designed to break down organic waste, while MOL is a type of microorganism that is used to improve the quality of the compost.
Q: What are the benefits of using EM4 and MOL in composting?
A: The use of EM4 and MOL in composting has several benefits, including:
- Improved decomposition rates
- Increased nutrient content of the compost
- Reduced odors and pests
- Improved soil structure and fertility
Q: How does the Tatakura method compare to other composting methods?
A: The Tatakura method is a unique and effective composting method that has several advantages over other methods. It is a low-cost and low-maintenance method that can be used to compost a wide range of organic waste materials. Additionally, the Tatakura method produces a high-quality compost that is rich in nutrients and has a low pH level.
Q: Can the Tatakura method be used to compost other types of waste?
A: Yes, the Tatakura method can be used to compost a wide range of organic waste materials, including food waste, yard trimmings, and animal manure. However, the method may not be suitable for composting certain types of waste, such as plastics and metals.
Q: How long does it take to produce compost using the Tatakura method?
A: The time it takes to produce compost using the Tatakura method can vary depending on several factors, including the type and quantity of waste being composted, the temperature and moisture levels, and the presence of microorganisms. However, in general, it can take anywhere from 10 to 30 days to produce compost using this method.
Q: Is the Tatakura method suitable for small-scale composting?
A: Yes, the Tatakura method is suitable for small-scale composting. It is a low-cost and low-maintenance method that can be used to compost a small amount of waste. Additionally, the method can be easily scaled up or down depending on the needs of the user.
Q: Can the Tatakura method be used to produce compost for agricultural purposes?
A: Yes, the Tatakura method can be used to produce compost for agricultural purposes. The compost produced using this method is rich in nutrients and has a low pH level, making it an ideal fertilizer for crops.
Q: Are there any potential risks or hazards associated with using the Tatakura method?
A: As with any composting method, there are potential risks and hazards associated with using the Tatakura method. These include the risk of disease transmission, the potential for pests and odors, and the risk of contamination. However, these risks can be minimized by following proper safety protocols and using the method correctly.