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@article{187386,
        author = {Shiva Kumar D and Vidya S.P and Chetana P. R},
        title = {DECENTRALIZED SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT THROUGH PIT COMPOSTING: A COMMUNITY INTEGRATED APPROACH FOR SOIL RESTORATION IN DODABALLAPURA TALUK, INDIA},
        journal = {International Journal of Innovative Research in Technology},
        year = {2025},
        volume = {12},
        number = {6},
        pages = {4198-4212},
        issn = {2349-6002},
        url = {https://ijirt.org/article?manuscript=187386},
        abstract = {Solid waste management (SWM) is a growing environmental concern in rapidly urbanizing towns like Doddaballapura city of Karnataka. This study presents a decentralized waste management model through pit composting, focusing on community participation and soil restoration. Biodegradable waste from selected households and farms was composted in pits layered with cow dung slurry and soil. After 45–60 days, the resulting compost was applied to their own agricultural fields. To assess its impact, soil samples were tested before and after composting for pH, electrical conductivity, organic carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. The results showed a significant improvement in soil quality, mainly in organic carbon and potassium content. The organic carbon increased from 0.23% to 0.63%, and potassium from 120 kg/ha to over 300 kg/ha. In addition, Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) activities raised awareness about waste segregation and composting. Community-led pit composting is a low-cost, sustainable solution that improves soil health, reduces landfill pressure, and promotes environmental awareness. This model can be replicated in similar towns for effective waste management and ecological restoration.},
        keywords = {Compost, Management model, Pit, Soil quality, Organic Carbon, IEC.},
        month = {November},
        }