Wormburner sparks waste collaboration

ST John of God Health Care Murdoch (SJGHCM) and Murdoch University marked the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding in July, for a commitment to work together to pursue an organic waste management program.

SJGHCM has embarked on a 12- month project to process food waste using an industrial worm burner provided by Murdoch University. The aim of the project is to research a viable method of diverting food waste from landfill.

The project will reduce the hospital’s greenhouse gas production and reduce organic waste disposal costs

‘This is an innovative approach to managing environmental initiatives in our precinct and we hope that it marks the start of a series of collaborative projects with St John of God Health Care Murdoch,’ said Murdoch University Vice Chancellor, Professor John Yovich.

The Environmental Technology Centre at Murdoch University will provide ongoing research and supervision throughout the 12-month project.

At the end of the trial period SJGHCM will have some recommendations on how it can sustainably process its organic waste on site and turn it into commercially valuable castings and fertiliser for its gardens.