Green Composting at the Vet School
From the lab to the garden!
The School of Animal & Veterinary Sciences at Roseworthy campus has a unique problem; what to do with in excess of 20 tonnes of animal waste (i.e. carcasses) used in research and teaching. In 2013, the school looked for alternatives to its previous disposal method of incineration via medical waste bins, and funds were sought through the Green Project Fund to implement a cleaner and greener method of disposal - composting!
The school contracted with a local company, Peats Soil, who provided a large, enclosed, aerobic BiobiN®. Mixed with straw or sawdust, the composting process generates heat above 60C for prolonged periods, which destroys pathogens and results in nutrient-rich humus, a soil amendment.
The new waste disposal system enables a single worker to safely and cleanly transport animal waste from the post-mortem exam room to an outdoor BioBin®, therefore reducing inefficient and occupationally challenging work practices.
The composting process has reduced transport costs and greenhouse gas emissions, and has reduced carcass disposal costs to below 15% of previous incineration costs.
Read more about organic recycling on campus.
