An initial appraisal of waste decomposition by microbial processes within roadside gully pots

Abstract

Despite their importance in urban drainage systems, gully pot internal processes have received little scientific study. Therefore, gully pot contents were examined to gain a basic understanding of these processes and to establish the decomposition characteristics of the contents ex situ. Moisture content, organic matter content, enzyme activity and pH were measured to investigate seasonal and geographical effects, in addition to a 5-week composting trial to determine the rate and characteristics of decomposition. Little difference was observed in the content processes, especially between seasons, and the composting trial illustrated organic content decreased at an average rate of 0.1 g of organic matter per 13 g of organic matter per day. The results from this study indicate an as yet unknown initial decomposition rate. Activity monitored between gully pots also suggests they are relatively similar systems across space and time; enabling gully contents to be evaluated universally in future research.