The vermicompost matrix reached stabilization (0.00 mg CO2
C/g organic carbon/day) with no release of CO2 through the degradation
of organic matter much before their respective controls and
it can hence be deduced that the time for curing is shortened and
stabilization time is reduced owing to the inoculation of E. eugeniae
to S4, S5 and S6. The vermicomposts produced from S4, S5 and S6
were below Mauritius Standards (MS164, 2010) but the compost
produced from S1 exceeded Cd limits; S2 exceeded Cr limits and
S3 exceeded Ni limits. To compose the organic fraction of MSW
from all scenarios, the BCFs values of the heavy metals can be classified
in the order: Cd (0.56–3.56) > Ni (0.56–3.04) > Cu (1.59–
2.42) > Co (0.91–1.81) > Cr (0.63–0.71) > Zn (0.62). The average
reduction in metal concentration (as compared to initial level)
for all three treatments studied was in the order: Cd > Cu >
Ni > Zn > Co > Cr. It was therefore suggested that metal loss was
related to the earthworm activity in the waste decomposition systems.
Data suggested that the feasibility of inoculated E. eugeniae
to diminish toxic heavy metals in the organic fraction of MSW
compared to simple composting process might be helpful in gaining
a clean environment, sustainable low-cost land recondition
practices and less hazard to human health.