Activity Information:

• Activity Name: Production of Worm Compost from Food Waste and Greenhouse Cultivation
• Date: September 23 – November 24
• Location: Turkish-German University
• Target Audience: Turkish-German University students, faculty, and the local community.

Activity Description:

This project aims to produce natural fertilizer by composting food waste from the Turkish-German University’s dining hall using worms. The compost produced will be used to grow vegetables and fruits in a greenhouse. The details of the project are as follows:

1. Objective and Purpose:

The aim of this activity is to recycle food waste and reduce environmental impact. At the same time, it seeks to promote sustainable farming practices by using natural fertilizers. The main goal of the project is to raise awareness in the community about waste management and sustainable agriculture.

2. Collection of Food Waste:

The activity will begin by collecting food waste from the university’s dining hall. This waste will include easily degradable materials, such as vegetable and fruit peels. The collection process will be carried out regularly over a specified period.

3. Worm Composting Process:

The collected dining hall waste will be composted using Red Californian worms (Eisenia fetida). These worms break down organic matter quickly, producing nutrient-rich compost. Closed compost bins will be used for the composting process, with humidity and temperature levels being controlled.

• Composting Duration: The worms can turn the waste into compost within 4-6 weeks.
• Use of Compost: The produced compost will be used for efficient farming in a greenhouse environment.

4. Greenhouse Setup and Farming Practices:

A greenhouse will be set up using the compost, where vegetables and fruits will be grown. The greenhouse will provide a controlled environment, allowing year-round production. The crops to be grown include tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and strawberries.

5. Education and Awareness Raising:

Throughout the activity, participants and the community will be educated on waste management, composting, and sustainable agriculture. These educational sessions will include both practical and theoretical knowledge. Educational seminars and workshops will increase public awareness.

6. Energy Efficiency:

The project will use renewable energy sources, especially solar energy systems, to meet the energy needs of the greenhouse. Solar panels will supply energy to the temperature control systems inside the greenhouse, increasing energy efficiency.

7. Monitoring and Evaluation:

Throughout the activity, the growth of plants and the effectiveness of the compost will be monitored and evaluated. The results obtained will serve as a reference for promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

Expected Outcomes:

• Natural Fertilizer Production: Natural fertilizer will be produced by recycling organic waste.
• Waste Management Awareness: The community’s awareness of waste management and recycling will be raised.
• Efficient Farming Practices: Healthy and efficient vegetable and fruit production will be achieved using natural fertilizers.
• Sustainable Agriculture Model: The project will serve as a model for sustainable agricultural practices.