Perspective Chapter: Valorization of Biological Waste into Biofertilizers and Biopesticides in Climate-Smart Agriculture in the Democratic Republic of Congo

Abstract

Organic biodegradable waste contributes to environmental pollution in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Pyrolysis, composting and mycorrhization are technologies used to recover this waste into biofertilizers and biopesticides, alternative to chemical fertilizers and pesticides that have significant economic and ecological footprints. Biological waste recovered in this way is climatic game and agricultural potential. Biochar Kahambwe with high carbon content (46.5%), proves to be a carbon sink and a considerable pedogenetic factor. Biochar Kahambwe, due to its alkaline pH (8.6), acts as a limestone amendment for the acidity of tropical soils. Biochar Kahambwe with a high cation exchange capacity (46.3%) is a source of nutrients including nitrogen (3.8%), phosphorus (0.59%), and potassium (0.20%) as well as the water stored in its pores (Water Binding Capacity: θv = 0.035 cm3.cm-1; pF = 1.25) which also serve as ecological niches for bacteria (Azotobacter, Nitrobacter, Nitrosomonas), Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (Glomus, Gigaspora). In the process of composting and mycorrhization of biochar, the respective values of the Stability Indices of Organic Materials are 45%, 60%, 60%, and 80%, respectively, for manure composts, pig manure, household waste composts, and sawdust composts.