Role of Microorganisms in Bioconversion of Solid Wastes and Economic Development

Abstract

Solid wastes are biologically converted into value added products by physiological action of microorganisms. These processes occur under controlled environmental condition. It could be in the form of submerged fermentation or as solid-state fermentation technology. Substrates used are mainly agricultural, industrial and domestic wastes. These wastes must possess qualities that will support microbial activities and are usually rich in carbohydrates, proteins, fats and oil. Microorganisms used include bacteria, mould, yeasts and fungi. These organisms are generally regarded as safe and cannot cause harm to the consumers. Products, such as antibiotics, biogas, biofuel, biofertilizers, bioplastic, organic manure, organic acids, flavours, enzymes, etc are derived from wastes bioconversion. Bioconversion of solid wastes to value-added products has contributed immensely to the economic development of the industrialized nations in area of job creation, income generation and in improving the quality of life through agriculture and industrial development. It minimizes wastes generation and reduces the size or land space used as landfill.

Keywords: Bioconversion, Value-added Products, Microorganisms, Organic Wastes, Microbial Metabolites, Solid State Fermentation