Physico-chemical Characterization of Bio-compost from Selected Resource Recovery Parks of Tamil Nadu

Bio-composting is an eco-friendly method for managing urban organic waste, converting biodegradable materials into nutrient-rich compost. This study evaluated the physicochemical properties of bio-compost samples obtained from 32 small towns in Tamil Nadu to determine their nutrient composition. The collected samples were analyzed and revealed that most of the samples had neutral pH (6.8-7.8), moderate nitrogen content (0.6%–1.6%), and carbon-to-nitrogen ratio within the optimal range (13.3-19). This was found to be suitable for agricultural use. Correlation analysis highlighted significant relationships between physical and chemical properties, in specific TN and PO4 both had strong positive relationships among the variables. Moreover, principal component analyses provided further insight into the potential impact of bio-compost on soil health. The findings of this study highlight the importance of sustainable waste management practices to improve the quality of the fertilizer while minimizing the sources of contamination.