The Frangipani Langkawi Resort & Spa has been tackling waste management issues for years and they practice what they preach .They
recently had Hafiz from PPSPPA come and demonstrate Takakura Home Composting Method, a waste management practice being implemented throughout Southeast Asia. Surabaya, Indonesia and Sibu, Sarawak
have already seen environmental improvements with this practice.
ZU INTRODUCING HAFIZ
VISITORS FROM SABAH TOURISM COUNCIL
My friend Zuraidah (Zu) is quite passionate about environmental issues, especially when it comes to recycling and waste management. It’s only fitting that she became part of the Team at Frangipani Langkawi . Zu knew of my previous failed attempts at composting, so she invited me to the demonstration being given to visitors from Sabah Tourism Council.
IT STARTS WITH KITCHEN SCRAPS, WATER, SALT/YOGURT
FINELY CHOPPING KITCHEN SCRAPS
It generally takes a couple of weeks for organic waste to decompose, through the process of decay and fermentation. The decaying process is actually what causes the bad ‘odor’. The Takakura Method enlists fermentation to neutralize the decay aroma.
By initially adding kitchen scraps to a mixer of salt and water or yogurt/gula merah and water, a storable fermenting liquid is made. After one week, you can start your ‘magic bucket’, Mr. Takakura’s
name for the composting ‘container’.
EQUAL PARTS OF CHICKEN FEED, WOOD SHAVINGS AND TOP SOIL
PERFECT CONSISTENCY WILL ALLOW BALL SHAPE
The compost ‘starter’ for the magic bucket is made with equal parts of chicken feed, top soil, wood shavings or leaves (crumbled). By mixing the dry ingredients with the fermented liquid concoction, the base of the compost is made. The proper consistency is reached when you can actually form a ball with the mixture. At this point you’re ready to add to your ‘magic bucket’ and begin your home compost.
‘MAGIC BUCKET’ MADE FROM BASIC SUPPLIES
By adding some of the ‘thickened’ compost material to the magic bucket, you can the proceed to add chopped kitchen scraps as they accumulate and mixing it in. We were told even fish ‘guts’ could be added without causing a stench! The fermented liquid speeds up the decomposing process of all the organic waste creating a beautiful compost usable for gardening . Some individuals have taken the process farther and are now making extra income by selling their home-made compost.
*PPSPPA in Langkawi is available to demonstrate this easy waste management solution to other hotels, groups or schools, free of charge. You can call them at +6 04 966 4735
or + 6 04 966 4735
