Shillong, Nov. 30: The Nangkyrsoi self-help group from Pynthorbah locality highlighted the advantages of Bokashi composting as an alternative to waste management in an interaction at the citizens’ meet on Shillong’s Environment at Raitong building today, organised by the People’s Learning Centre.

At a time when waste management seems a Herculean task, the self-help group has come forth to show that waste can actually be a resource.

The Bokashi method follows a simple process. The organic waste is first segregated at home, then gathered in a bucket and left for a week before being put into a compost hole.

The secret, however, is application of Bokashi Zing to the waste, which comprises micro-organisms that actually feed on foul smell and allows for a natural way of reducing, re-using and recycling organic waste.

At the end, what one actually gets is solid resource as it works as compost after a period of time.

The juice that is extracted from the waste can be used as a disinfectant, foliar spray and repellant.

This method is widely practised in Japan where, according to Carmo Narohna, Bethany Society director, around one million families use it as a waste management alternative.

“Since January, we have been trying to propagate the idea, not only in Shillong but also in places like Assam and Arunachal Pradesh. In fact, by selling Bokashi Zing, we are generating income for our members,” said Barilang Skhemlon, leader of the self-help group.

The learning centre is working in tandem with civil societies, educational institutions, traditional bodies and the government to save the rivers, especially the Umkhrah and the Umshyrpi.