Market-place and other organic wastes as nutrient sources for horticulture in Nepal

The FAO has recently reported (2013) that, globally, approximately one-third of the edible parts of fruits and vegetables harvested are wasted, more so in S and SE Asia. Much of this loss is during the processing, distribution and consumption phases of the food supply chain. This represents a serious inefficiency and loss of valuable nutrients if the 'wastes' are not recycled. Working between Australia and Nepal, we have tested technologies at various scales to address the conversion of such organic wastes into nutrient resources. Focusing mainly on the use of worms (vermiculture) we have shown that it is possible to develop small-scale industries and even household level approaches to reuse wastes, particularly from market places. We also developed in practice a system to make granules from chicken manure; added benefits include removing odour and allowing for easier transport around the mountainous areas of Nepal. We have added to the trained workforce through support of higher degree studies eleven graduates from Tribhuvan University.