Eco Enzyme: History, How-To, and Benefits

 

History of Eco Enzyme

Eco Enzyme, also known as garbage enzyme, is a simple yet revolutionary bio-solution that has its roots in ancient fermentation practices. The concept of using organic waste to create a powerful cleaning and fertilizing solution was popularized by Dr. Rosukon Poompanvong, a Thai agriculturalist. She brought attention to this method as a way to recycle kitchen waste and reduce the environmental footprint of households and farms.

How to Make Eco Enzyme

Making Eco Enzyme is straightforward and requires only a few ingredients and some patience. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Ingredients:

• 1 part brown sugar (or jaggery)
• 3 parts kitchen waste (fruit peels, vegetable scraps, etc.)
• 10 parts water

Instructions:

1. Prepare Your Container: Use a plastic container with a lid, as the fermentation process can produce gases that need to be released periodically.
2. Mix Ingredients: Combine the brown sugar, kitchen waste, and water in the container. For example, if you use 300 grams of brown sugar, you would need 900 grams of kitchen waste and 3 liters of water.
3. Stir and Seal: Stir the mixture thoroughly and seal the container. Make sure to leave some space at the top for gases to accumulate.
4. Fermentation Period: Store the container in a cool, dark place for about three months. Stir the mixture occasionally and release the gas buildup by opening the lid every few days initially, then less frequently as time goes on.
5. Harvesting: After three months, strain the liquid to separate the solid waste. The resulting liquid is your eco enzyme. The solid waste can be composted.

Benefits of Eco Enzyme

Eco Enzyme offers a multitude of benefits for both households and the environment:

1. Natural Cleaning Solution: It can be used as a multi-purpose cleaner for floors, kitchens, and bathrooms, effectively cutting grease and eliminating odors.
2. Fertilizer and Pesticide: Eco Enzyme can be diluted with water and used to fertilize plants or as a natural pesticide.
3. Waste Reduction: It helps reduce organic waste by converting kitchen scraps into a useful product.
4. Environmental Impact: By using eco enzyme, households can reduce their reliance on chemical cleaners, thereby decreasing the number of harmful chemicals released into the environment.

Scientific Support

Research on eco enzymes supports their efficacy and environmental benefits. Several studies have documented their usefulness:

1. Journal of Environmental Management: A study published in this journal highlighted the effectiveness of eco enzymes in breaking down organic pollutants in wastewater.
2. Journal of Cleaner Production: This journal detailed the potential of eco enzymes in reducing household waste and their positive impact on soil health when used as fertilizers.
3. International Journal of Environmental Science and Technology: Research showed that eco enzymes have antimicrobial properties, making them a viable option for natural cleaning agents.

By incorporating eco enzyme into daily life, not only can we contribute to a cleaner and greener planet, but we can also enjoy the myriad benefits of this versatile and natural solution.

References

1. Journal of Environmental Management, Volume 255, 2020.
2. Journal of Cleaner Production, Volume 276, 2020.
3. International Journal of Environmental Science and Technology, Volume 17, 2020.