Rural poverty alleviation and sustainability by valorisation of rural wastes - A case study in India

A micro-level study was carried out in a typical south Indian village to assess the quantity and type of wastes generated and its present mode of management. This information was used to identify the appropriate technologies, which could enhance the value of the waste produced, and at the same time, improve the economic conditions of rural people to alleviate poverty and improve ambience, health and income. The study indicated that nearly 2364 mg of rural wastes in the form of crop residues, animal manure and human excreta are produced annually in the village with a population of 510. (77%) Seventy seven percent of the wastes produced in the village were used as domestic fuel, animal fodder and organic fertilizer for crop production and the rest (23%) were left in open fields for natural decomposition causing Nuisance and diseases. All these wastes are valorized and converted into RESOURCES contributing to Alleviate poverty, Achieve Sustainability and more than all provide Healthy Environment. Anaerobic digestion of animal manure and human excreta produced in the village could yield 82% of the domestic energy required besides enriching the waste into manure by 3-4 times as compared to conventional storage on the ground for manure and thus improving their economic condition. If the traditional mud chulha (stove) is replaced with improved chulha, each family unit could reduce their annual biomass (firewood) consumption by about 2/3 saving 2000 kg biomass and Rs. 3,474 family/year. Commercializing the utilization of coconut and paddy biomass using the village's manpower and facilities could increase the rural family income several fold. i.e additional amount of Rs. 35,328/family/ year. By commercializing coconut Fronds and Husk, the income will approximately be doubted.