Vermicomposting of food waste: A step toward circular bioeconomy

The rapid expansion of the population, urbanization, industrial activities, and the intensification of agriculture and food production have significantly increased food waste generation in recent years. Vermicomposting has the potential to transform food waste into nutrient-rich organic fertilizer, making it a highly promising method for biological waste treatment. This review furnishes an in-depth review of the key patterns and mechanisms involved in food waste decomposition, nutrient recovery, and pollutant detoxification through vermicomposting, approaching a circular bioeconomy. The synergistic interaction between earthworms and microorganisms facilitates the breakdown and transformation of pollutants in the substrate, enriches nutrients, and underscores the crucial role of the earthworm gut in the process. Vermicomposting offers numerous benefits; however, several constraints limit its effectiveness and widespread adoption in agriculture. To promote its development, efforts should focus on advancing technology, increasing governmental awareness and policy support, and establishing standardized guidelines for implementation. Vermicompost plays a vital role in the circular bioeconomy, with applications in agricultural sustainability, waste management, pollutant remediation, biogas generation, and animal feed production.