Turmeric As Adjuvant in Converting Food Wastes into Organic Fertilizer

Abstract

According to the Malaysia Ministry of Housing and Local Governance, up to 38,000 tons of solid trash are produced daily by Malaysians; of that number, 17,000 tons are food waste, accounting for 44.5 percent of the total composition of solid waste. Most food waste ends up in landfills, where it releases methane gas, which contributes to the greenhouse effect. In order to prevent food waste from being dumped, food waste is transformed into organic fertilizer in this research by integrating turmeric. Turmeric's well-known properties as a natural insecticide and plant wound healer may increase the effectiveness of organic fertilizers. In the cafeteria and canteen of Politeknik Kuching Sarawak (PKS), food waste samples such as eggshells, shells, and green vegetables are collected. These samples are then placed in a compost bin and covered with dry leaves, soil, water, and turmeric. Research is performed on the organic fertilizer's composition and pH levels. Therefore, a comparison is made between the effectiveness of chemical and organic fertilizers. In summary, the growing growth of chili trees has been efficiently supported by the addition of turmeric to organic fertilizer made from food waste collected from the cafeteria and canteen at Politeknik Kuching Sarawak (PKS).