Goa adopts decentralised waste model as Bicholim project leads the way

Goa is shifting to a decentralised solid waste management model that processes biodegradable waste near its source, with a pilot project in Bicholim, North Goa, serving as a template. Officials said the approach, based on the Nisargruna Rapid Composting Technology designed by waste expert Sharad Kale, aims to replace the current collection-and-transport system with segregation at source and local recovery of resources.

Under the model, segregated kitchen, vegetable and garden waste is shredded, mixed with a bacterial culture and subjected to controlled aerobic degradation. Kale said one metric tonne of biodegradable waste can yield 150-160 kg of organic manure within 24 to 48 hours. The process neutralises foul odour and leachate immediately upon adding the culture, addressing a key public apprehension about handling wet waste.

The technology can be adopted by gram panchayats, municipal areas, housing complexes, hotels and markets. Kale said the Bicholim project could demonstrate how a network of smaller processing units can complement existing infrastructure and make segregation at source more meaningful by keeping plastics and metals clean for recovery. He described organic waste as a resource rather than garbage, fitting a circular economy model.