This month we caught up with Michael McBean who is in the process of setting up an exciting new business.
How would you describe your business in one sentence?
Vermiculture is working with nature by using composting worms to turn food and organic waste into macro and micro nutrient-rich worm castings that improve soil and help reduce landfill waste.
How did you get started?
I was researching for a cheap organic fertiliser for my garden, then stumbled across Vermiculture AKA Worm Farming. The more I researched the more convinced I had to give it a go.
Basically, I went down a rabbit hole and came back with worms!
…and how are things going currently?
The waste from my house & garden get used for feeding & bedding, I recycle various containers that now house worms.
The worm castings are stored to be used as organic soil amendment for my plants/ veggies.
What are the small, super-niche things that you love about your business?
Vermiculture can be enjoyed as a hobby, developed into a business, or used as an educational activity.
It is a straightforward process that requires minimal expense to get started and can easily be expanded to whatever scale is required.
Most importantly, vermiculture is a sustainable, circular and environmentally friendly practice that transforms organic waste into a valuable natural resource.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced since starting your business?
I am not aware of another Vermiculture operator in the area, therefore any advice or guidance had to be researched online or by reading books.
I’ve made a few mistakes along the way, but now I have figured out few simple techniques to minimise the risk.
Why do you think the Highlands is the best place to run a small business?
A number of organisations offer generic assistance for Start up businesses (HIE, Business Gateway)
However, the Highlands Small Business Network, (HSBN) is a friendly, relaxed & grounded group that are willing to listen then assist if they can.
What’s something you and your business have done that you’re really proud of?
Reduce Landfill Waste
Lower Greenhouse Gas Production
Improves Soil Health
Supports sustainable food growing
Saves money on fertiliser
This is a low cost initial set up, managed on a small or large scale depending on individual choice.
This could be used for education project, working with nature to solve waste ending up in landfill.
What’s playing in the background while you work?
Play 70’s or 80’s music, listening to various podcasts
Any “oops” moments you can laugh about now?
I got a text from my children “ Planning to pop up to visit you, what would you like for your birthday?
My reply: What days you planning to visit? I would like some Composting Worms for my Birthday.
The next text I received was 3 capital letters WTF.
I thought to myself, why do the young generation always abbreviate words,
My return text in full, Wednesday, Thursday or Friday suitable for a visit. 🤭 ( moral let people know what you do, if not they might think your odd 🤪 )
Where can people find you?
If you would like to get in touch, you can email me at socachcroft@gmail.com