How Microbial Replenishment Is an Effective Strategy For Fecal Sludge Management

Posted on by Dr. Anuja Kenekar

Understanding Fecal Sludge Management

Fecal sludge constitutes solid waste, liquid and semi-liquid waste, human excreta, and other wastes like toilet paper, food waste, cleaning materials, trash, debris, etc.

It is more concentrated with suspended and dissolved solids when compared to wastewater.

According to an estimate from Energy Alternatives India (EAI), approximately 0.12 million tonnes of fecal sludge are generated in India per day.

In a developing country like India, the urban areas are now densely populated, and nearly 70% of households with toilets are connected to septic tanks or on-site sanitation systems.

The same applies to hotels, restaurants, and other commercial spaces.

Challenges in Fecal Sludge Management

Often, the important components of FSM and best practices are overlooked, leading to severe consequences such as sludge buildup, foul odors, and septic tank overflows and backflows.

Furthermore, millions of people follow open defecation practices.

The indiscriminate disposal of human waste and fecal sludge in the open field in densely populated areas is hazardous.

It causes an emission of foul odor and multiple health hazards.

Inorganic chemicals get washed down the drains and reach water bodies.

Exposure to pathogens in fecal sludge can cause diseases such as cholera and diarrhea in humans.

It can impact surface water and groundwater, contributing to their pollution.

As one of the largest users of groundwater in the world, India faces a huge health risk from water contamination.

In on-site sanitation (OSS) facilities, the collection, transport, and treatment of fecal sludge pose a major challenge.

Improper municipal infrastructure and a lack of adequate facilities in Indian towns and cities are a significant concern as well.

There is an urgent need to address the issue of fecal sludge management and achieve sanitation goals.

The Swachh Bharat Mission, a government initiative aimed at improving urban sanitation, is playing a major role in transforming the current sanitation scenario.

While lakhs of toilets are being built to achieve this objective, the solution for treating fecal sludge has not garnered much attention.

In the absence of proper fecal sludge management techniques, people resort to manual scavenging and mechanical emptying.

Despite the ban on manual scavenging in India, many people die due to this practice of septic tank cleaning.

The mechanical emptying methods used when septic tank systems fail due to overloading are also not a feasible option.

There has to be a paradigm shift in the thought process.

Along with the availability of toilets, effective treatment of the fecal matter is necessary.

This is where an innovative, cost-effective, and hassle-free solution of microbial replenishment proves immensely helpful.

How Does Organica Biotech Help?

Organica Biotech is a leading company that provides sustainable and powerful solutions for sewage management.

The product Bioclean Septic consists of natural microbes and a specially formulated blend of enzymes for septic tank treatment.

It aggressively acts on fecal matter and degrades it, thereby minimizing sludge buildup and preventing septic tank issues such as odor, overflow, and other failures.

It also suppresses the propagation of disease-causing pathogens.

Bioclean Septic Plus is another effective septic tank treatment product from Organica Biotech that degrades fecal matter and food waste.

It is also effective against fats, oils, and greases.

It is a cost-effective and easy-to-use solution and negates the need for manual or mechanical emptying.

Effective fecal sludge management is crucial for achieving safe sanitation practices in India.

The use of Bioclean Septic and Bioclean Septic Plus will enhance fecal sludge management and contribute to achieving sanitation objectives.

Happy Gut, Healthy Animal – Probiotics For A Better Microbiome

Posted on by Dr. Anuja Kenekar

Animal husbandry has evolved since the dawn of human civilization.

The rising demand for products and byproducts from animal husbandry is attributed to the exponential increase in the global population.

To meet these demands, animal husbandry professionals have employed various practices to increase yields.

Just like us, animal health is governed not only by the feed that is provided to them but also internally by the millions of tiny microscopic beings residing within their gut.

The large intestine of animals contains a vast array of microorganisms.

Metaphorically speaking, this ‘universe’ contains ‘galaxies’ of highly diverse gut bacteria that are metabolically unique.

Animal nutrition is incomplete without these bacteria, as the animal body is incapable of absorbing essential vitamins and minerals on its own.

For example, gut bacteria metabolise vitamins B and K, which cannot be absorbed by animal cells otherwise.

Individual microbes, such as sulphate-reducing bacteria, Bifidobacteria, and Clostridia, respond selectively to specific dietary components in a way that may be important to health.

Gut microflora also forms a line of defense against the onslaught of disease-causing pathogens.

High numbers of healthy gut bacteria prevent pathogens from colonizing the intestine, thereby preventing disease.

For example, Lactobacilli sp. work in synergy with the body’s immune system to combat the colonization of pathogenic organisms, such as Salmonella sp.

The usage of steroids and antibiotics in animal feed has had devastating effects on livestock in terms of immunity and overall health.

While selfishly using these drugs, humans have inadvertently affected each other.

Continuous consumption of meat and milk, with steroid and antibiotic traces, can cause dire consequences for us.

Some problems that have been diagnosed in correlation to steroids, hormones, and antibiotics through meat and dairy are obesity, increased risk of cancer, and early puberty in children.

Antibiotics are administered in livestock to prevent diseases.

However, all products from such animals inadvertently contain traces of antibiotics, which enter the human food chain.

The functions that antibiotics carry out could be easily achieved by incorporating safe probiotics into the animal feed.

This will not only improve their digestion but also increase the overall immunity of the livestock.

When the health of the livestock improves naturally, the need to dose them with unnecessary hormones and antibiotics will be eliminated.

FOLLOW A NEW TRADITION WITH GOOD NUTRITION!

Biodigester Technology: A New Solution for a New Era

Posted on by Dr. Prafull Ranadive

A high percentage of the population in India does not have access to proper toilet infrastructure due to unaffordable costs, additional space required, and the need for frequent fecal waste removal.

This has led to open defecation practices prevailing in many regions in India.

In many places, those with access to toilets face multiple challenges, including acute water shortages, inadequate waste treatment systems, and poor waste disposal mechanisms.

Untreated waste in the open areas pollutes air, water, and land.

For decades, the majority of diseases in India have been caused by the contamination of water bodies, resulting in a lack of safe drinking water.

The population residing in urban slums and rural areas suffers from various diseases such as diarrhoea, dysentery, cholera, typhoid, hepatitis, and others every year.

There is an urgent need for affordable, easy-to-operate, and effective solutions to change the sanitation situation in India.

It is imperative to build a healthy India while also protecting the environment.

The Swachh Bharat Mission has ushered in a new era focused on achieving sanitation objectives in India.

Many innovative technologies and solutions have emerged since the inception of this nationwide initiative.

Bio toilets based on biodigester technology have emerged as the best alternative to traditional toilets, providing a great way to achieve sanitation goals in India.

Biodigester Technology

Bio-digester technology is a system that utilizes microbes to biologically decompose organic materials or waste through either aerobic or anaerobic processes.

Human waste, food, fat, oil, grease, and animal manure can be processed using a biodigester.

Anaerobic and Aerobic Bio-Digester Technology

Anaerobic biodigester technology is used to break down organic waste, including food leftovers, kitchen waste, oil, grease, garden waste, animal manure, and human waste.

The key feature of this system is that waste decomposition takes place in the absence of oxygen.

The major benefit of using anaerobic biodigesters is that you can produce biogas using the by-product methane, which in turn can be used to generate electricity or heat.

It can be used as an eco-friendly and renewable source of energy in place of fossil fuels.

Aerobic bio-digester technology achieves the decomposition of food in the presence of sufficient oxygen. But this process does not produce biogas.

These types of biodigesters break food down into gray water that can be disposed of in drainage systems or used as a fertilizer for plants.

Biodigester Technology in Bio Toilets

A portable toilet typically consists of a toilet seat, a holding tank, and a formulation that assists in waste decomposition.

However, a bio-toilet consists of a biodigester tank made generally of FRP, UPVC, or galvanized iron.

The closed container contains a special anaerobic microbial consortium that helps in the degradation of human waste reaching the tank.

Harmless by-products such as carbon dioxide, water, and methane are generated after the decomposition process, which can be used to produce biogas.

 

Bioclean BD for Fecal Sludge Management

bioclean BD Logo

 

Benefits of Biodigester Technology

There are several benefits of using biodigester technology-based bio-toilets over conventional toilets.

Biodigester-based mobile toilets, due to their compact size, can be installed on geographical terrains where conventional toilets can’t be used.

The cost is also comparatively low. Since no cleaning or solid waste removal is required, there are no recurring costs.

In terms of BOD, COD, and other effluent parameters, quality is better using bio-digester technology.

Bio-digester bio-toilets are eco-friendly since no harmful by-products are produced.

Instead, the byproduct produced can be used as an energy resource.

Other features include no pest infestation, no clogging, no foul odour, pathogen reduction up to 99%, no maintenance required, and no solid waste removal required.

It is easy to install a biodigester or add it to an existing toilet system.

 

Bioclean BD for Fecal Sludge Management

bioclean Biodigester + Biotoilet Logo

 

Organica Biotech is a leading company dedicated to providing innovative solutions that can transform the sanitation landscape in India.

The Bioclean range of solutions includes government-recognized and recommended Bio-toilet and Biodigester technology.

Bioclean BD is a natural biodigester tank treatment product consisting of special microbes capable of degrading organic waste aggressively and minimizing sludge build-up.

These cost-effective and efficient biotech solutions are paving the way to achieve sanitation goals in India.

For more information, please get in touch with us today.

Sanitation And The Unlikely Link To Good Health

Posted on by Kiranjyot

According to the United Nations Development Plan, although 2.1 billion people have gained access to improved water and sanitation since 1990, dwindling supplies of safe drinking water remain a major problem affecting every continent.

Poor sanitation, lack of access to clean water, and inadequate personal hygiene are responsible for an estimated 88% of childhood diarrhoea in India.

This and more alarming facts and research have made providing universal access to safe and affordable drinking water for all by 2030 a crucial goal to achieve.

This requires an investment in adequate infrastructure, the provision of sanitation, and awareness building, as well as consistently encouraging hygiene at every level.

So what is this link between sanitation and health, the absence of which can be fatal for human beings as well as severely detrimental to the environment?

Around the world, more than 500,000 children under five lose their lives annually due to severe dehydration caused by diarrhoea (WHO).

And even though statistics report a downward trend in deaths due to diarrhoea in India, India still accounts for 20% of this global number.

In India, 1 in every five children under the age of 5 still dies due to diarrhoea (according to WHO).

It is interesting to note that in the decade preceding 2015, India’s efforts to tackle diarrhoea resulted in a 52% decline in childhood deaths.

And yet, the prevalence of diarrhoea is still at an astonishingly high 9.2%.

The WHO states that diseases due to poor drinking water access, unimproved sanitation, and poor hygiene practices cause 4.0% of all deaths and 5.7% of all disability or ill health in the world.

A fact that often doesn’t get enough attention is that diarrhoea is easily preventable by promoting sanitation, managing sewage treatment in a safe manner, and ensuring all people have access to uncontaminated, safe drinking water and hygiene.

Urban solid waste disposal is another sanitation-related challenge.

Some WHO estimates suggest that urban areas can generate 1.3 billion tonnes of solid waste per year.

This figure is expected to rise to 2.2 billion tonnes by 2025.

It is imperative that systems and infrastructure for collecting and disposing of this solid waste be developed urgently to avoid the clear and present risk of the proliferation of disease-carrying vectors, such as rodents and insects, as well as the risk of water contamination.

These risks can be exacerbated by other urban conditions, such as overcrowding.

Did you know that 1 gram of faecal matter contains numerous pathogens which are associated with diseases like diarrhoea, typhoid, leptospirosis, hepatitis, and cholera?

Exposure to faecal matter, whether due to open defecation (still prevalent in India) or inadequate treatment of faecal matter, can lead to groundwater contamination, generate odours, and serve as a breeding ground for diseases.

Human exposure to pathogenic microbes occurs through various routes linked to improper sanitation, including waterborne, water-based, water-related, excreta-related, and water storage and collection-related.

In all of this, the lack of toilets remains one of the largest challenges in tackling illness and death among children caused due to improper sanitation.

According to UNICEF, in 2015, 626 million people in India practised open defecation.

Sanitation coverage stands at 59% in India; however, it also sees a huge disparity in the use of toilets in the rural versus urban areas (34% and 80%, respectively).

So it is not surprising that we still have such poor and alarming statistics to report on sanitation-related diseases.

This is the established link between malnutrition and poor sanitation. Poor healthcare is associated with poor sanitation.

Taking action to improve health requires understanding the factors that influence exposure to faecal pathogens and the various pathways through which they are exposed to human beings.

With a fast-increasing population to cater to, this challenge and the associated health risk are perpetually teetering at the brink of exploding into a full-blown catastrophe.

Since the launch of the Government of India’s flagship scheme, the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Mission), more than 12 million toilets have already been constructed in rural areas*.

It is crucial to find solutions that can be quickly implemented, cheaply, and safely, as well as solutions that are efficient and can be scaled up to provide a wider reach and give access to a larger section of citizens as quickly and efficiently as possible.

It is believed that significant investments and resources are being fuelled towards ending open defecation in 2019 through the Swachh Bharat programme.

The time is ripe to address this silent killer and fill the glaring gap between sanitation and health.

Today, 1 in 2 Indians still does not have access to proper sanitation facilities.

Organica’s bio-toilets and bio-solutions for sanitation address the core problem of sanitation infrastructure and appropriate treatment of faecal matter.

Our interventions range from toilets in small spaces to solutions for complete degradation of faecal matter in the shortest possible time.

What’s more, these can be applied to a range of infrastructure challenges – whether inaccessible remote areas or small, crowded spaces and can also be adapted to existing facilities and to restore defunct toilets.

The microbial blend embedded in these systems aids in the effective degradation of faecal matter, curbs the propagation of deadly diseases, and eliminates foul odour.

Best Septic Tank Treatments for Homeowners

Posted on by Oscar Peter

Homeowners in India have two options for dealing with waste disposal: a municipal sewage drainage line or a septic tank system.

According to the census data on the Availability and Type of Latrine Facility (2001-2011), 22.2% of households in India use a septic tank.

As of 2024, with growing urbanization and infrastructure challenges, the dependence on septic tanks has increased, particularly in peri-urban and rural areas where municipal drainage systems are still lacking.

In rural areas, 14.7% of households depend on septic tanks, whereas in urban areas, 38.2% of households use septic tank systems to treat waste.

If you rely on a septic tank every day to manage waste, you must be careful about its maintenance.

Otherwise, it can lead to sludge accumulation, overflows, backups, and a foul odor all around.

Using the best septic tank treatments consistently is crucial for successful maintenance.

What Happens Inside the Septic Tank?

Many people are aware that household waste is sent to the septic tank, but they have only a vague understanding of what happens next.

When the wastewater from your bathroom, toilet, and kitchen sink flows into the tank, millions of beneficial bacteria break down the waste.

With increased awareness of sustainable sanitation, many households are now turning to bio-enzymatic septic tank treatments, which enhance natural bacterial activity and reduce reliance on chemical-based cleaning agents.

Consequently, the solid matter settles at the bottom. Then, it decomposes and forms a layer of dense sludge.

Scum, consisting of fats, oils, and grease, rises to the top of the liquid and forms a layer.

The liquid effluent, which separates the sludge and scum, flows to the drain field.

You mustn’t upset the balance of naturally occurring beneficial bacteria in the septic system.

Without the effective performance of bacteria, the unprocessed waste, in the form of human excreta and toilet paper, will cause sludge buildup and the formation of an unpleasant odor.

Various materials, such as chemicals, bleaches, and anti-bacterial agents, can interfere with the septic tank environment and affect its performance.

Flushing an extensive amount of water can also disturb the natural processes and dilute the bacterial community, affecting the decomposition process.

Different Septic Tank Treatments

  • Inorganic Acids or Alkalis – Inorganic Acids or Alkalis are strong compounds capable of removing the clog in a whisk. However, these products containing harsh chemicals can harm beneficial bacteria in the septic tank and disrupt the digestion process. Moreover, the corrosive properties of such treatments are bad for pipes and tank walls.
  • Hydrogen Peroxide – Recent findings suggest that hydrogen peroxide does not impact the bacterial community present in septic tank systems. But it has other disadvantages. Experts believe that hydrogen peroxide can affect the soil content in the drain field, damaging its ability to filter and absorb wastewater.
  • Organic Solvents – While organic solvents are well-known for their action against fats, oils, and grease in the septic tank, they destroy the living bacterial community. Moreover, organic solvents, after leaving the septic tank, can leak into groundwater, posing a potential hazard to human health.
  • Biological Additives – Generally, a healthy septic tank contains enough beneficial bacteria to support the biological process that treats wastewater. However, due to the presence of toxic substances and chemicals, the natural and healthy environment of the septic tank system is compromised. This is where biological additives help.

Biological additives like bacteria and enzymes are used to enhance the existing bacteria or microbes present in septic tanks.

It stimulates bacterial growth and helps in degrading solid waste, scum, and even fibers in the toilet paper.

Additionally, biological additives can prolong the life of the septic tank and maintain its proper functioning for years to come.

It is a cost-efficient method to include in routine maintenance as it can restore the natural balance of the tank, and you can avoid mechanical pumping or repairs.

Suppose your septic tank system has a history of backups or sludge accumulation.

In that case, additives help maintain the bacteria levels, which aid in the breakdown of waste and support your tank in draining properly.

Thus, bacterial additives are the only septic tank treatment that can boost the performance of the septic system without harming the local bacterial population and the environment.

Organica Biotech is one of the leading companies with advanced solutions for septic tank treatment.

Bioclean Septic is a natural microbial septic tank treatment product that is highly capable of degrading organic waste completely.

The other features of Bioclean Septic include minimizing the sludge buildup and curbing foul odour.

The septic tank cleaner resolves overflow and backflow issues, too.

Bioclean Septic is the best septic tank treatment product for homeowners, and it helps in the effective maintenance of your septic system.

Also read: 

Your Complete Guide To Home Composting

Posted on by Dr. Anuja Kenekar

Imagine if piles of trash accumulate all around the place where you reside.

The stench from the garbage mountain becomes a nightmare, and there is no escape from the health hazards it causes.

Sounds eerie?

With the amount of waste generated by humans, the world is facing a future with a highly polluted environment, climate change issues, and air pollution, among other problems.

Is it the apocalypse, people ask?

But wait a minute; everything is not as doom and gloom as you may think. There is an easy solution.

Home Composting is one of the best methods to keep our planet green and free from unwanted waste.

Follow composting practices, and you can keep your life brimming with joy and everyday sunshine.

Moreover, if you love to paint your indoor and outdoor spaces with lush green grass, bright and beautiful plants, and useful vegetables, compost is like a treasure trove.

It includes nutrients, minerals, and soil microorganisms that enhance soil quality, resulting in healthy crops and a good crop yield.

Never mind if you don’t know about composting because this article aims to make you an expert.

Read on to find out everything you need to know about Home Composting.

What is Compost?

Compost, in simple terms, is a mixture of decomposed or decayed organic matter.

It is a natural process where tiny but powerful microorganisms break it down and turn it into rich manure or fertilizer for the soil.

You know how microbes in our stomach help us digest the food, right?

The same is true with compost microorganisms.

Did you know that approximately 40% – 50% of the waste produced is organic in nature?

Therefore, composting is a magical formula for handling household organic waste effectively and converting it into something useful.

Benefits of Home Composting 

After all is said and done, you might wonder how it will benefit you.

If you still have any doubts about the potential benefits of composting, the points mentioned below should help settle the matter.

  • It improves the structure and porosity of the soil
  • Reduces erosion and runoff
  • Boosts overall soil quality
  • Supplies organic matter important for plant growth
  • Helps nutrient retention in the soil
  • Increases soil fertility
  • Improves soil pH
  • Acts against harmful pathogens in the soil
  • Reduces the burden of waste management
  • Directly helps in reducing greenhouse gas emissions

Last but not least, home composting costs you nothing, and it is an enjoyable experience.

Now that you know all the ways you can benefit from composting, let’s jump to the process.

Home Composting Process

If you have never done composting before, that’s okay.

Our 5-step guide will help you to begin home composting without any hassles.

  • STEP 1

Four key components make an excellent compost: Air, Water, Carbon-based waste (browns), and Nitrogen-based waste (greens).

The first step is to gather all the organic waste material from your kitchen and garden.

Segregate the waste into browns and greens, ensuring a reasonable balance of both is available to prepare the compost.

Wondering what these waste types are?

Find out the examples below:

  1. Browns: Dried Leaves, Twigs, Garden debris, Coffee grounds, Shredded paper, Brown paper bags, cardboard, straw, etc.
  2. Greens: Fresh grass clippings, food scraps or waste, vegetable and fruit peels, salad greens, etc.
  • STEP 2

Once you have completed the segregation process, select a location or space where you would like to compost your food scraps.

Ensure the space is well-ventilated and protected from sunlight.

If you have ample space, pit composting is the most effective method to follow.

If not, don’t worry; you can use a perforated bin instead.

Alternatively, you can make one by punching holes in a bin, allowing the air to pass through the organic waste.

Remember, air or oxygen is essential for microbes to perform their function.

Then, add layers of brown and green waste and mix it well using a spatula.

  • STEP 3

As mentioned earlier, microorganisms are the key players in the composting process, and they require warm and moist conditions to thrive, multiply, and accelerate the process.

On the other hand, don’t make a mess by putting in too much water, either!

The best way is to sprinkle water on the heap to wet all areas enough.

To add water or not depends on the moisture content of the waste.

So, if the waste is more on the drier side, then adding water would be recommended.

However, if the moisture content is already high, it would be advisable to add carbon sources, such as coconut coir (cocopeat) and dry leaves.

You can check out your composting mate here – Bioclean Compost.

  • STEP 4

Gathering and mixing the compost once a week are crucial steps in maintaining the ideal conditions for microbes to act on the organic material.

The turning or mixing of the heap allows oxygen to reach all parts of the waste.

This, in turn, stimulates microbial activity and maintains optimum internal temperature, which is necessary.

  • STEP 5

Observe the compost and determine if all the original organic waste ingredients are recognizable in their original form.

It should be dark, smelling rich, and very earthy, devoid of any bad odour.

Once you see these properties, you are ready to use them as compost for your plants.

Home Composting Challenges

Just like anything in the world, there are challenges in the home composting process as well.

You should certainly be aware of them.

Due to an improper mix of bacteria, many composting enthusiasts complain of issues such as foul odours from the pile, excessive disturbance from worms, pests, and flies, and slow composting.

The right mix of the bacterial community can tackle all these challenges head-on.

There is a simple solution to all these problems.

You can use Bioclean Compost from Organica Biotech.

The rapidly acting bacteria decompose a wide range of organic waste and convert it into nutrient-rich compost.

Some of the other features of Bioclean Compost are that it keeps the compost pile odour-free, inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria, and repels pathogens and pests.

So, now you have the solution, then what are you waiting for?

Start composting and save the world!

Happy Composting!

Also read:

Is India Already In The Middle Of An Environmental Crisis?

Posted on by Dr. Anuja Kenekar

In ancient West African folklore, the Òrìṣà are the spirits sent to Earth as humans to guide humankind on how to live on the planet.

It is believed that worship of Òrìṣà is the path to finding inner peace and satisfaction.

And worshipping Òrìṣà is the same as worshipping Earth, soil, water, seas, mountains, and rivers.

Because the ancient Africans knew the Earth gives us life and all that we need to continue living.

Mythological scriptures from around the world are replete with stories of gods and divine beings that are actually forces of nature. And Indian mythology, too.

We have mountains, seas, and stars that are revered as gods.

And we have rivers that are still considered sacred. Who is prayed to in every part of the country?

Who are seen as life-giving, all-powerful entities to be venerated and cherished at all times.

We have story upon story about rivers – the Ganga, the Yamuna, the Saraswati, the Brahmaputra, the Godavari, the Kaveri, the Tapti, the Narmada, the Chenab, the Beas, the Chambal, to name a few – that have been part of India’s folklore and history.

Stories that both fill up religious texts and provide historical context for a lot of India’s cities that sprang up around the banks of these rivers.

We believe a dip in our rivers can wash away all our sins and purify our souls.

There are special festivals and offerings made for rivers in India.

Surprisingly, then, a country that so reveres its rivers in books is willing to ill-treat them so badly in reality.

In fact, we are actively harming our rivers across the country.

Our rivers are being choked. Everyday. By paper and plastic waste. By industrial effluent. By remnants of festivities. By rampant, unchecked construction. By illegal dumping of waste. By illegal sand mining.

And by active (and often malignant) neglect.

And this ill-treatment of our rivers is resulting in every possible manner of bad news for India and her people.

According to a 2012 World Bank report, “India: Issues and Priorities for Agriculture,“ India has nearly 195 million hectares of land under cultivation.

And while the bulk of this land depends on rain, close to 70 million hectares still depend on irrigation.

And it is rivers that provide the water these farmlands need.

But with rivers drying out, less and less water is reaching these farms, resulting in fewer and fewer yields for our farmers.

This has obviously been catastrophic for our farmers, as evidenced by the spate of farmer suicides across India in the past many years.

But it is equally bad for the rest of India, who don’t realise that the fate of the farmer is inextricably linked with their own.

Lower output for farmers results in less food reaching the market, driving up the cost of available food, and also making us, as a nation, more reliant on food imports.

Not that the river water that reaches farms results in bountiful crops either.

Loaded with effluents from industrial and municipal waste, our rivers have become less givers of life and more bearers of life-threatening illnesses.

This effluent-laden water is irrigating our fields, contaminating our soil, and helping grow the rice, wheat, and vegetables that we eat every day.

And yes, we are falling ill because of it. And dying. In large numbers.

Chemical waste in our rivers is also affecting plant and animal life.

Equally, they are affecting aquatic life as well, directly impacting all the fish farmers who depend on these rivers for their livelihoods.

There are people who believe wars of the future will be fought over water. In India, that bleak future is already here.

We saw people struggling for water across many parts of Maharashtra earlier this year.

We saw Chennai dealing with an unprecedented water crisis, as all four reservoirs supplying water to the city ran dry.

Residents were spending 1000s of rupees every day just for a few litres of water.

Offices and schools had to shut down. Police had to intervene in many clashes over water.

Sadly, neither Maharashtra nor Chennai appears to be an isolated, stray incident.

Twenty-one Indian cities are projected to run out of water in two years, including some of the country’s largest cities.

More than 100 million people are likely to be affected.

Climate change is exacerbating the issue to the extent that 40% of our population may not have access to safe water by 2030.

Ironically, access to safe water for all by 2030 is one of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

Safe to say on this goal, at least, India is way short of meeting the target.

Amidst all this, India still managed to become the world’s largest exporter of water (in a manner of speaking). Clearly, there are some priorities that need to be corrected.

We need to accord our rivers the same reverence in practice as we do in holy scriptures. Enforce strict regulations on the dumping of waste in rivers.

All kinds of waste. Industrial waste, municipal waste, civic waste… none of that belongs in our rivers.

We need the laws to be stricter, and we need those laws to be enforced.

We need laws to ensure that all wastewater is biologically treated and rendered safe by eliminating all pollutants and contaminants.

However, we also need individuals to be conscious and conscientious about the waste they generate and how it is disposed of.

India doesn’t (yet) have the infrastructure to ensure all domestic waste gets treated before disposal.

Individuals, housing societies, and business parks need to unite to ensure that all waste is properly segregated, all organic waste is composted, and all recyclable waste is recycled.

Yes, the title of this post is a rhetorical question.

India has been experiencing an environmental crisis for some time now.

But together, we can lift India back to the gloriously green and rich land it once was.

And together, we can ensure India always remains gloriously green and rich.

Seeing how India is home to nearly 8% of Earth’s biodiversity, it is every Indian’s duty to preserve this rich bounty of Nature for our future generations.

BioToilet – For Open Defecation Free India

Posted on by Kiranjyot

On the eve of India’s 70th Independence Day, we are all grateful to our ancestors for the freedom we enjoy today.

During the struggle for freedom, patriotism burned in the hearts of every Indian.

Today, as we are raising slogans of patriotic sentiments and agitating against various issues, I found we have lost those flames that made 15th August 1947 happen.

It’s not a date or an event; it’s a message that the country we live in is our “Motherland,” and she belongs to us and us alone.

Does this feeling resonate among all of us today?

Are we still so loving towards our Motherland?

I don’t think the answer to all is a “Yes“. India is leading its march to make its mark worldwide.

But that is not the big picture. India has a rural population of 68.84%, and sections of the population still don’t have access to basic amenities such as food, clothing, shelter, and basic hygiene.

My agenda today is to highlight one of the major concerns related to hygiene: open defecation.

I guess by now, there is no person unaware of the term “OD” or Open defecation.

Swachh Bharat Abhiyan has shed a huge light on the perils of OD and the other adversities associated with it.

As mentioned earlier, a large population of India lives in rural areas, out of which 52.1% of the population still openly defecate as per a survey conducted by the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO).

It was our Honorary Prime Minister, Narendra Modi’s, dream to make India free of Open Defecation by October 2, 2019, marking the 150th birthday of Mahatma Gandhi.

More than three years after its launch, the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan has been successful in spreading awareness and implementing measures to address sanitation-related problems in India.

One of the major initiatives includes the installation of bio-toilets in railways and other public places.

A bio-toilet system utilizes a biodigester, which converts human waste into recyclable materials.

A Biodigester is a mechanized reactor where all the human waste is accumulated and its decomposition is facilitated with the help of highly potent Bacteria.

These Bacteria have a robust nature and can withstand the routine cleaning agents used in toilets.

They convert human excretory waste into manure, methane, and water.

The liquids and solids formed during waste treatment in the biodigester are separated by a solid-liquid separator.

The separated liquid is then recycled after proper treatment, while the solid waste is utilized as manure.

The biogas generated in these systems can be used as a domestic fuel in railway kitchens and pantries.

The first Bio Toilet system, installed on the Gwalior-Varanasi-Bundelkhand Express, has been running successfully since January 2011.

As these bio-toilet systems can function with a single microbial dose for a year, they have proven to be an efficient zero-discharge system for human waste.

The importance of installing Bio Toilet systems in railways is gaining wide popularity all over the country.

However, the maintenance of these bio-toilets has become a concern for the railways due to the ignorance of the commuters.

Many Bio toilets have been dysfunctional due to clogging caused by the dumping of plastic waste, such as bottles and food wrappers, into the toilets.

Such callous behavior by our people is delaying the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan from reaching its goals.

In a large country like India, you cannot expect things to change overnight, unless all its citizens make a conscious effort.

The government and several NGOs are implementing various programs to improve the sanitation scenario in India.

It’s now on us to jointly support their commendable efforts and make the dream of an open-defecation-free India a reality.

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Resource Recovery from Wastewater: How Data-Driven Approach Can Help

Posted on by Karen Sam

In the intricate balance of environmental conservation and sustainable development, the treatment of wastewater emerges as a critical nexus.

As our global population grows, the volume of wastewater generated increases in tandem, presenting both a challenge and an opportunity.

In this era where data drives innovation, a robust data-driven approach to wastewater treatment can unlock the door to effective resource recovery.

Organica Biotech, at the forefront of sustainable solutions, harnesses the power of data to revolutionize wastewater treatment, exemplifying how technology can transform this challenge into a stepping stone toward a greener, more sustainable future.

Understanding the Wastewater Challenge

Wastewater, often perceived as a liability, is a repository of potentially valuable resources.

Traditional wastewater treatment has primarily focused on the removal of contaminants to meet environmental discharge standards, neglecting the latent energy, nutrients, and water embedded within.

This linear approach not only overlooks the intrinsic value of wastewater but also perpetuates the depletion of natural resources.

The Paradigm Shift: Resource Recovery

Resource recovery from wastewater heralds a paradigm shift in the way we perceive and treat this abundant yet underutilized resource.

It entails the extraction and utilization of valuable components such as energy, nutrients, and water from wastewater, transforming it into a source of wealth rather than waste.

However, achieving efficient resource recovery requires a nuanced understanding of the composition of wastewater, and this is where a data-driven approach becomes indispensable.

The Power of Data in Wastewater Treatment

Data forms the bedrock of effective resource recovery.

In wastewater treatment plants, a myriad of parameters, such as chemical oxygen demand (COD), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), nitrogen and phosphorus levels, and microbial composition, provide crucial insights into the characteristics of the wastewater.

Organica Biotech’s Data-Driven Solutions

Organica Biotech, a pioneer in sustainable solutions, leverages cutting-edge technologies to drive innovation in wastewater treatment.

Through a meticulous data-driven approach, the company optimizes treatment processes to enhance resource recovery.

Let’s delve into some key aspects of how we utilize data for sustainable wastewater treatment:

1. Comprehensive Wastewater Analysis

  • Organica Biotech starts by conducting a comprehensive analysis of the wastewater. Advanced analysis of the current operations and the plant provides a detailed snapshot of the wastewater composition. This data is the foundation for tailoring treatment strategies that maximize resource recovery.

2. Microbial Insights for Enhanced Biodegradation

  • The microbial composition of wastewater plays a pivotal role in its treatment. Organica Biotech employs extensive techniques to understand the diversity and dynamics of microbial communities. This insight enables the augmentation of beneficial microbial populations, optimizes biodegradation processes, and improves overall treatment efficiency.

3. Nutrient Recovery for Agriculture

  • One of the key components often overlooked in wastewater is nutrients. Organica Biotech employs data-driven strategies to recover essential nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus from wastewater. These nutrients, instead of being discarded, can be repurposed as valuable fertilizers for agriculture, closing the loop on nutrient cycles.

4. Energy Harvesting from Wastewater

  • Wastewater is not just a repository of nutrients; it also carries energy in various forms. Organica Biotech employs analytics to identify opportunities for energy harvesting within the treatment process. This may involve harnessing the energy potential of biogas generated during anaerobic digestion or optimizing processes to minimize energy consumption.

Organica Biotech: Pioneering Sustainable Wastewater Treatment Solutions

Engaging in the sustainable management of wastewater, Organica Biotech is a pioneer in providing advanced biological wastewater treatment solutions.

Derived from Nature’s Laboratory, our innovative technologies present a proven and eco-friendly alternative for both sewage treatment and industrial wastewater treatment.

Tailored to address diverse needs, our bio-formulations cater to a broad spectrum of industries and municipal bodies.

Uniquely crafted, these formulations are designed to efficiently and significantly degrade organic waste, aligning with our commitment to environmental stewardship.

Collaborating with Organica and harnessing the power of nature, you can witness tangible benefits.

Experience a reduction in sludge volume and operational costs and effectively mitigate foul odors.

Furthermore, our solutions play a pivotal role in substantially lowering COD (Chemical Oxygen Demand) and BOD (Biochemical Oxygen Demand) levels in water bodies.

Organica Biotech is renowned for its extensive range of nature-friendly products, among which Cleanmaxx Aero takes the spotlight.

This bio-enzyme stands as a testament to our dedication to providing effective and sustainable biological wastewater treatment solutions for both sewage and industrial wastewater treatment.

Shaping a Sustainable Future with Organica Biotech

In the landscape of wastewater treatment, Organica Biotech stands as an exemplar of how a data-driven approach can transform challenges into opportunities.

By harnessing the power of data, we not only optimize treatment processes for environmental compliance but also go a step further to unlock the hidden potential within wastewater.

Resource recovery becomes not just a possibility but a reality, contributing to a circular economy where wastewater is no longer a burden but a valuable asset.

As we navigate the complexities of environmental stewardship and sustainable development, our commitment to leveraging data for innovative wastewater solutions shines as a beacon of hope.

The future, shaped by technology and guided by a deep understanding of our ecological footprint, holds the promise of a world where wastewater is not just treated but embraced as a wellspring of resources, and Organica Biotech leads the way in this transformative journey.

Shifting Gears From Infrastructure Building To Sustainability

Posted on by Dr. Anuja Kenekar

While building a toilet may not be an expensive proposition, and the sanitary function it performs is unquestionable, the shortage of toilets in India was appalling for a long time.

It took India seven decades after independence to achieve ODF status.

After lagging behind all its South Asian neighbors, our country has now finally achieved ODF status.

On 2nd October 2019, the 150th anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared India Open Defecation Free as he addressed a congregation of 20,000 representatives by the banks of the Sabarmati River, calling the Swachh Bharat Mission a shining example of transformative development and participatory approach.

Dubbed the largest program of its kind in the world, the Swachh Bharat Mission has been a significant leap forward for the country.

While we may be patting our backs for this feat, this is not a time to rest on our laurels.

This is only the first phase, and it will be a test of time before our country performs well on the WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) index.

This includes the availability of water, water treatment, waste management from the pits, wastewater treatment, and the use of toilets.

Massive amounts of money have been spent on SBM, and sustaining it is crucial for public health.

Adhering to the 2030 Global Sustainable Development Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) mandated by the UN, the second phase of SBM needs to focus on ‘safely managed sanitation’, which means that human waste is safely treated at an off-site facility or disposed of in situ.

There should be no human contact in the process, and the waste must not be discharged into the environment.

This keeps pathogens away from the environment and protects us from diseases.

Untreated waste, when released into the environment, contaminates the water supply and the food chain, causing life-threatening diseases.

Many parts of India are already facing a crippling water crisis, and poor waste management only exacerbates the situation.

A recent National Annual Rural Sanitation Survey (NARSS) study states that 93.1% of households in rural India have access to toilets, and 96.5% of these toilets are used regularly.

Over 9.5 crore toilets have been built under SBM, but they need to be constantly functional, regularly used, and have safe disposal of waste ensured to sustain the ODF status.

The NARSS report also states that 34% of toilets in India have septic tanks and soak pits, and 30% are twin leach pit toilets.

On 27th Sep 2019, a 10-year national rural sanitation strategy was announced by the Union Jal Shakti Ministry’s Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation (DDWS) to help sustain the 100% ODF status.

The focus will be on managing plastic waste, organic waste, grey water, and faecal sludge in rural areas, along with upgrading single-pit toilets to twin-pit ones, constructing soak pits for septic tanks that lack them, and repairing defunct toilets.

Union Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat stated that the country will now move forward towards becoming ODF+; however, the health outcomes of this plan will be visible only when sanitation and hygiene receive the attention they deserve.

Building toilets is way easier than managing the tonnes of solid and liquid waste that will be generated in these toilets.

Safe disposal and reuse of excreta are crucial to prevent contamination of water resources and soil, as well as health issues arising from contaminated water and soil, and from pathogens in untreated waste.

Only toilets made with the twin leach pit system have a self-composting method to handle waste without needing any periodical cleaning or waste disposal.

Those with single pits or septic tanks require periodic cleaning, and the safe disposal of faecal sludge produced in these toilets is an absolute must, as well as a significant challenge.

Lack of water and poor terrain are some of the challenges faced in rural areas, while, again, lack of water, paucity of space, and waste management (which has also been a reason for the death of several sanitation workers) are urban challenges.

Proper maintenance of septic tanks and in-situ treatment of faecal matter are critical to preventing catastrophic health problems in the future.

Currently, Indians collectively generate more than 150,000 tonnes of waste, with less than 30% of it being treated.

The sanitation narrative in India has gaps, including faecal sludge management, wastewater treatment, and waste management, that need to be addressed in a well-structured and planned manner.

Otherwise, the SBM assets would not serve their purpose and might even go defunct with time.

India’s ODF trajectory can move to ODF+ and then ODF++ only with improved methods, plans, and natural alternatives that promote healthy waste management.

Those who work in the sanitation sector need to be sensitised towards the impact their work has on society – better health leads to a better economy.

Only a practical and smart combination of advanced technology and effective sanitation protocols will make India’s ODF drive truly successful.

Making sanitation a priority has its own benefits. It can also be a significant source of revenue in the country’s economy.

Innovations in products and services that enhance sustainability and create better ways to utilize toilet resources (energy from waste, recovering nutrients, fertilizers, etc.) will also create more employment opportunities.

The Indian sanitation sector is estimated to be worth $148 billion annually by 2030.

Developing technologies for better waste management will also lead to numerous research and development opportunities.

Additionally, the underlying benefits of improved health and a higher quality of life are also undeniably noteworthy.

Along with building good infrastructure, it is important to maintain it.

That requires a strong sanitation force and natural products that are neither harmful to the environment nor to human life.

One such product is Bioclean Septic, a natural microbial septic tank treatment solution that efficiently breaks down fecal matter.

Immune to harsh climatic conditions, the microbes in Bioclean Septic decompose sludge and minimize sludge build-up, eliminating the chance of any choke-up in the future.

They also arrest the growth of putrefying pathogens and leave no room for foul odours.

Bioclean Septic also eliminates any possibility of backflow or overflow as it decomposes all organic blockages in leach pits and surrounding stone walls.

It is also 100% natural and a safe and effective product to keep toilets functioning well.

Bioclean Septic Plus is another natural microbial formulation that breaks down fecal matter as well as food waste in septic tanks, eliminating the risk of clogging, foul odors, or pathogen growth.

It reduces the number of pump-outs needed for the septic tank, making septic tank maintenance simpler and more economical.

Bioclean BD is a biodigestor tank treatment product that contains high levels of enzyme-producing bacteria to degrade fecal matter completely.

And Bioclean Biotoilets, made of Unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride, are sturdy, easy to install, and maintenance-free.

Fire retardants with a Class 1 rating are resistant to chemicals and corrosion, making them a better alternative to cement and pit toilets.

All of these products are capable of enhancing the sustainability quotient of India’s ODF achievement.

The demand of the hour is to shift focus towards sustainability, and these products are precisely what you need for this purpose.

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