Abstract:
This study focused on adopting vermicomposting and its impacts on the environment in Welmera District, located in the Oromia Region of Ethiopia. The main objective of the study was to assess the level of adoption of vermicomposting by farmers and understand its effects on the environment. The researchers collected data from primary and secondary sources, primarily through interviews with the participants in the study area. They used a descriptive research design and employed a quantitative research approach to analyze the data. from the study conducted, it was found that the farmers in the area are aware of the benefits of Vermicompost and they are quite knowledgeable about their farming business. The sample size for this study included 200 vermicompost producers, with 151 being male and 49 being female. Out of these 200 respondents, data was collected from 189 of them, comprising 145 men and 44 women. All 189 family members, including women and children, are actively involved in vermicompost production and are earning income from selling it. Interestingly, 127 out of the respondents (that's about 67.19%!) mentioned using household waste and cow dung as inputs for their vermicomposting. It's fantastic to see that such a large percentage of the respondents, around 64.02%, are aware of vermicompost in improving soil health and fertility. vermicompost is truly amazing as it brings so many benefits to sustainability and nourishing the soil. Interestingly, we found that 34.08% of respondents haven't fully grasped the environmental advantages of vermicompost. This gives us a chance to educate and raise awareness about how vermicompost can positively impact soil health and fertility. According to the research, it was found that 36% of the respondents were not aware of the importance of integrating vermicompost with chemical fertilizer. As a result, these farmers solely relied on chemical fertilizers, leading to long waiting times, sometimes even months, to access them. The research suggests the need for collaboration between research and development partners to raise awareness among farmers about vermicompost production. Based on the findings, it is suggested that we provide training and regular technical support to the 200 farmers already involved in Vermicompost production. This will help them enhance their skills and knowledge, resulting in improved vermicompost production and increased income generation opportunities. Additionally, it is recommended that the district agricultural office develop a market strategy to connect the vermicompost producer farmers with potential buyers. This will ensure a sustainable income for the farmers and create a steady demand for their vermicompost products while alleviating environmental pollution by using organic wastes such as fruits and vegetables as raw material. These would help to ensure sustainable production and utilization of vermicompost
