Grant: Applied Research and Development Grants - Level 1

There has been a steady rise in the utilization of residential and commercial composting vessels because of their simplicity, ease of use, and environmental, social and economical benefits. However the majority of the commercial systems currently on the market suffer from one or more of the following shortcomings: low performance, high cost, undesired odor, high labour requirements, or lack of control.Forest City Models and Patterns Ltd. (FCMP) in collaboration with Lambton College's Bluewater Technology Access Centre proposes to develop a simple, robust, and affordable automated composting system powered by solar energy. This simple yet dynamic system is capable of converting various organic waste streams into green, sustainable end-products such as fertilizers and landscape materials in an economically sound and environmentally benign manner.Dr. Shahram Karimi and his research team that includes graduates and student researchers will work closely with FCMP to carry out the research activities. The proposed applied research project will stimulate economic development through technology transfer to FCMP and other local and regional SME's to divert and utilize organic waste streams in a cost-effective and environmentally benign manner, where a valuable, renewable commodity will be produced.