Biowaste

Concluding the article series on the best research paper authors of the scientific research competition, we introduce the competition laureate Grēta Girvaite.

Grēta is from Kuldīga and moved to Liepāja to study metal product design at the Liepāja Music, Art, and Design Secondary School, and later pursued environmental engineering at the Riga Technical University in Liepāja (formerly Liepāja University).

he says: "I studied in this field because nature is very special to me, and it is necessary to develop environmental protection. My dream is to work in large forest and mountain areas in the field of environmental protection."

During her studies, Grēta has actively been interested in and researched environmental issues and solutions. The idea for the permaculture tool "GALA Dārzs" originated during her second year, when she participated in a hackathon with her classmates.

"Although we did not win a prize in the hackathon, the local municipality showed interest in this idea. Since I was very interested in it, I wanted to continue developing it," says Grēta.

“GALA Dārzs” is a practical tool that can either be made by yourself or ordered from Grēta, as she developed it at her countryside home. The wooden parts are treated using an environmentally friendly preservation method—burning. The tool is hexagonal in shape because it is more aesthetically pleasing and creates an interesting pattern when combined with other tools, forming a honeycomb pattern. This tool is also suitable for people who have difficulty bending down in the garden, as it is designed to be at a convenient height.

“GALA Dārzs” ensures a circular cycle within its internal system—moisture and organic waste from the garden go into the compost; the compost returns nutrients and some heat to the garden.

“With the “GALA Dārzs” permaculture tool, I wanted to provide a better and more convenient opportunity for people living in cities to practice gardening and separate and process compostable organic waste. The tool will be tested for use on balconies, so it can be used by an even larger segment of the population. Currently, the tool can be placed on various surfaces such as lawns, paving stones, asphalt, etc. And if it’s not possible to place the tool near the house (for example, in apartment buildings), I encourage people to visit a local community garden, as its availability will be developed in the future. It is already available in Liepāja and Riga,” Grēta enthusiastically shares her idea.

G. Girvaites scientific research paper "Permaculture Tool 'GALA Dārzs'" is available here.