Citation

Bhardwaj, K. K. R., Potentials and problems in the recycling of farm and city wastes on the land. Proc. RRAI Symp; PAU, Ludhiana, pp. 57-75, 1980.

Abstract

If the estimated cumulative quantities of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium from the different waste materials are considered together, a more comprehensive picture becomes evident (Table 9). In whichever state of availability the organic wastes are utilized, the expected gains would be measurable real. Considering the potential nutrient availability with most conservative and practical projections as those in terms of fertilizer equivalent values, the total net annual outturn works out to be 4.5 million tonnes. Contribution to this quantity from crop residues and animal wastes alone amounts to about 95 per cent. The total estimated consumption of fertilizer nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in the country in 1979-1980 was nearly 5.5 million tonnes.

Table 9. Total and utilisable quantity of plant nutrients (NPK) in various available wastes (Thousand tonnes)

Nature of waste	availability	quantity	equivalent value
Crop residues	3445.0	1562.0	781.0
Animal wastes	12400.0	7400.0	3700.0
Municipal refuse	43.0	43.0	21.5
Sewage wastes	182.0	182.0	146.8
Total	16070.0	9187.0	4649.3

Technology of agricultural utilisation of crop residues and animal wastes has become fairly known. Only innovative steps to remove the existing gaps in knowledge are required. The major constraining factor is the development of residue management systems in crop production practices. On the contrary, the problems and constraints in the utilization of municipal wastes are more real and serious. Solutions will depend upon future researchers in the area on a national basis.

Country, State, District, etc.

India

Language

English

Material

rice straw, wheat straw, general

Use category

energy production, paper, construction, soil nutrients, general