Valorization of pineapple residues for sustainable agriculture and renewable energy needs in Benin

Duration

2024-2029

Lead institutions

KU Leuven

Université d'Abomey-Calavi

Academic partners

Benjamin Horemans

Codjo Emile Agbangba

Project status

Ongoing

Programme

TEAM

Total budget

299,937.00

Summary

Pineapple production is at the core of export diversification in Benin. Exhausting soil nutrients and the energy demand for pineapple juice production challenge its sustainability. By collaborating with pineapple production associations, the simultaneous valorization of underutilized residues from pineapple crops and processing via anaerobic digestion to renewable energy and the production of organic fertilizers will be optimized and demonstrated considering local needs and industry’s reality. In the long term, the project achieves three sustainable development objectives. Specifically, the project contributes towards achieving universal access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy (SDG 7). Additionally, the availability and use of organic fertilizers will impact soil fertility, crop productivity, and fruit quality, thereby contributing to the achievement of objectives 2 and 12 of the 2030 agenda.

Contact us