Evaluation of the use of Hermetia illucens in organic waste composting: a systematic review

Abstract

Population growth has increased the generation of organic waste. Composting is an effective strategy to recycle this waste and improve soil quality. In this context, the use of Hermetia illucens in composting has attracted great interest due to its efficiency in reducing organic waste. Focused on Sustainable Development Goal 13 (Climate Action), this review article aimed to gather information on the efficiency of Hermetia illucens in composting. For the systematic review, we used research selected according to PRISMA methodology from Scopus and Web of Science databases, published between 2020 and 2024. The results showed that Hermetia illucens larvae achieved biodegradation of organic waste in a period of 12 to 14 days, as opposed to traditional composting (6-7 weeks). The compost obtained had high levels of nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, manganese and boron. In conclusion, the use of Hermetia illucens is highly efficient in the rapid decomposition of organic waste and produces nutritious compost, presenting itself as a sustainable solution for waste management.