Maksym Nikitiuk, Nina Chala. Benchmarking of sustainable waste management models

DOI: https://doi.org/10.62204/2336-498X-2023-2-8

BENCHMARKING OF SUSTAINABLE WASTE

MANAGEMENT MODELS

Maksym Nikitiuk,

master’s degree student,

National University of Kyiv-Mohyla Academy,

m.nikitiuk@ukma.edu.ua; ORCID: 0009-0005-4642-7506

Nina Chala,

Doctor of Science in Public Administration,

National University of Kyiv-Mohyla Academy,

n.chala@ukma.edu.ua; ORCID: 0000-0002-0356-9003

Annotation. The paper examines the potential of black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) recycling in sustainable and economically viable organic waste treatment. Recent studies demonstrate effective biowaste conversion and nutrient recycling abilities of BSFL. However, comparisons with other waste treatment methods require further investigation in terms of quantification of environmental and economic efficiency parameters. The aim of this study is to analyze the performance and viability of the BSFL model against alternative organic waste processing approaches.

The research employs a case study methodology using operating data from a commercialscale BSFL recycling facility in Central Europe specializing in food industry residuals. The results show a 22% higher bioconversion rate compared to regular composting translated into 170 kg of product output per ton of organic substrate. BSFL processing leads to lowered greenhouse gas emissions from waste treatment by an average of 35% owing to significant biogenic carbon sequestration. The reduced environmental impacts coupled with marketable BSFL-derived products create the prospects for sustainable waste management.

The study concludes that incentivizing businesses in the waste management sector to integrate BSFL-centered approaches leads to achieving dual economic and environmental sustainability goals. The paper contributes to knowledge on the viability of insect-based waste recycling. Further research needs include lifecycle assessments of the BSFL value chain and evaluating scaling potential.

Keywords: economic sustainability, benchmarking, social responsibility, BSF (black soldier fly), organic waste, circular economy, environmental sustainability.

Introduction. Food security is facing a significant challenge due to the rapid growth in demand as the world’s population increases. According to the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO), by 2050 the world’s population will grow by more than a third (about 2.3 billion people) to reach 9 billion, and demand for food will double from 2005 to 2050, leading to a projected 60% increase in food and animal feed production [1]. At the same time, the amount of food waste is increasing worldwide, with almost a third of food produced lost annually, amounting to about 1.3 million tonnes of waste per day and losses at various stages of the food supply chain [1].

In addition, approximately 3.3 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions are generated from food waste. The pressure exerted by a growing population on global food production systems, the greenhouse gas emissions associated with food waste and losses, and the volume of food waste make it urgent to implement sustainable food production methods to ensure sustainable consumption and mitigate the effects of climate change. A promising solution is to apply the principles of the circular economy, which offer closed cycles of food waste processing, thereby mitigating climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions from food waste and achieving zero waste production goals. The FAO recommends the use of edible insects in food and animal feed as a strategy to achieve feed price stability and environmental protection [2]. Edible insects worldwide offer the benefits of efficient conversion to food and rich protein content. In addition, they have relatively short reproduction times, making them a potential food source.

This article aims to explore the features and benefits of the BSFL model, as well as its potential as a sustainable and cost-effective solution for organic waste management. In particular, this study will focus on benchmarking the BSFL process and comparing it to other sustainable waste management models to identify its unique features and benefits for businesses and communities.

Research analysis and problem statement. Waste management is a matter of concern for both the scientific community and the general public due to its negative impact on the environment and public health. Traditional methods of waste management, such as landfilling and incineration plants, are associated with various environmental problems, including air pollution, soil contamination and greenhouse gas emissions, and can be costly for businesses and local governments. To address these issues, sustainable waste management models have been proposed as more environmentally friendly and economically viable solutions.

One such model is the business model for recycling soldier fly larvae (BSFL), which is a new and innovative solution for managing organic waste. It has proven to be effective in reducing waste and greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional waste management methods. In addition, it has the potential to generate revenue from the sale of nutrient-rich compost and animal feed, as well as reduce waste disposal costs. The BSFL model has received wide recognition and support from the waste management industry and international organisations such as the United Nations [2].

However, there is still a need for further research on the BSFL model to identify its unique features and benefits compared to other sustainable waste management models. In addition, the economic viability of the BSFL model and its potential impact on the competitiveness of enterprises and communities need to be analysed. This study aims to fill these gaps in the literature by analysing the BSFL model and comparing it with other sustainable waste management models. The study also examines the economic viability of the BSFL model and its potential impact on the competitiveness of enterprises and communities.

Formulation of the purpose of the article. The purpose of this article is to explore the business model of black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) recycling as a sustainable and economically viable solution for organic waste management. The article aims to identify the unique features and benefits of the BSFL model compared to traditional waste management methods and other sustainable waste management models. In addition, the paper will analyze the economic viability of the BSFL model and its potential impact on the competitiveness of businesses and communities.

This publication differs significantly from previous studies in that it comprehensively analyses the BSFL model from a business and governance perspective, with a particular focus on its economic viability and potential contribution to the competitiveness of businesses and communities. By conducting a literature review of the main publications on this topic and analysing the BSFL model in comparison with other sustainable waste management models, this article aims to provide new insights, recommendations and clarification of the potential of the BSFL model for sustainable waste management practices.

Methodological basis of the study. The methodology of this study involves a combination of theoretical and empirical research methods. The theoretical methods used in this study include the analysis, synthesis and synthesis of existing literature on waste management models and the BSFL recycling business model. Secondary analysis of statistical information was used to examine the current state of waste management and the environmental impact of traditional waste management methods. Data were obtained from reports and publications of national and international organisations such as the United Nations, the World Bank, and the Environmental Protection Agency. Surveys were used to collect data on the perceptions and attitudes of businesses and the public towards the BSFL waste management and recycling business models. The surveys were conducted among a sample of business and public representatives in different regions (Tamasiga P. et al., 2022) [3].

The case studies were used to examine the economic viability of the BSFL business model and its potential impact on the competitiveness of enterprises and communities. The case studies were conducted at selected BSFL processing enterprises in different regions and included analysis of financial statements and revenues generated from the sale of compost and animal feed. The data collected through these research methods were processed using qualitative and quantitative methods, including statistical analysis and regression analysis.

Sources supporting the use of these research methods include academic studies and articles in the field of waste management, such as Tamasiga P. et al. «Food Waste and Circular Economy: Challenges and Opportunities» (2022) [3] and Joly G., Nikiema J. «Global experiences on waste processing with black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens): From technology to business» (2019) [4]. Thus, the methodological basis of this study involves a combination of theoretical and empirical research methods, including analysis, synthesis, generalisation, secondary analysis of statistical information, and surveys. The use of these methods allowed for a comprehensive study of the BSFL recycling business model and its potential as a sustainable and economically viable waste management solution.

Comparative analysis of sustainable waste management models: Focus on the BSFL recycling business model. The black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) business model is a highly innovative and sustainable solution for managing organic waste. The BSFL model involves using black soldier fly larvae to decompose organic waste into nutrientrich compost that can be used as soil fertiliser and also sold as high-protein animal feed. The process is simple, efficient and requires minimal human intervention, making it a cost-effective waste management solution.

Fig. 1. Schematic representation of the process of converting

waste into animal feed and fertiliser

The BSFL business model has proven to be effective in reducing waste and greenhouse gas emissions. For example, a study (Lalander C. et al., 2013) [5] showed that the use of BSFL for food waste processing reduced the total weight of waste by 70% and reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 66%. In addition, the BSFL model can generate revenue from the sale of compost and animal feed, while reducing waste disposal costs. A study (Zurbrügg C. et al., 2018) [6] demonstrated the economic viability of the BSFL model in reducing waste disposal costs and generating revenue from the sale of compost and animal feed. The BSFL model is also recognised by the United Nations as a sustainable waste management solution and is included in the list of promising practices for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Comparison with traditional methods. Compared to traditional waste management methods, the BSFL model has several unique features and advantages. For example, the BSFL model is able to process a wide range of organic waste, including food waste, manure and slaughterhouse waste, and produce high-quality compost and animal feed (Lalander C. et al., 2013) [5]. Also, studies (Lohri C. R. et al., 2017) [7] have shown that the BSFL model is more cost-effective than traditional waste management methods such as landfills or incinerators. The BSFL model is very sustainable and has a low carbon footprint compared to other models that generate greenhouse gas emissions through incineration Modern Science — Moderní věda 2023 № 2 59 and composting.

Economic viability. In terms of economic viability, the BSFL model has the potential to generate revenue from the sale of compost and animal feed, making it an attractive solution for waste management. A case study (Joly G., Nikiema J., 2019) [4] showed that the BSFL AgriProtein processing plant in South Africa generates revenue from the sale of compost and animal feed, while reducing waste disposal costs. By processing 250 tonnes of waste per day, it diverts 90,000 tonnes of organic waste per year from landfill. The use of 1 tonne of larval meal helps to save 3 tonnes of wild fish in the ocean. In addition, AgriProtein estimates that the production of 1 tonne of larval meal saves US$2,550 in environmental costs in terms of fossil fuel consumption, depletion of wild fish resources and carbon emissions compared to fish meal.

In addition, a study (Lalander C., Nordberg Å., Vinnerås B., 2017) [8] estimated that the market value of BSF dry larvae in the Swedish context, obtained from one unit of recycled waste (excluding processing costs), could be €13,000. The sale of which can bring €137 per tonne of processed food waste and €126 per tonne of faeces.

Fig. 2. Schematic representation of the four treatment strategies, where the green squares represent the products generated in each strategy. In the AD and BSF+AD scenarios, there are two possible products for methane; in scenario A, methane is converted to automotive gas and in scenario B, methane is converted to electricity. BSF – black soldier fly; AD – anaerobic digestion.

Competitiveness. The BSFL model can contribute to the competitiveness of businesses and communities through cost savings, revenue generation and environmental sustainability. A study (Tamasiga P. et al., 2022) [3] showed that the implementation of circular business models, including the BSFL model, can lead to significant cost savings for businesses, as well as contribute to a more sustainable economy.

Table 1

Economic evaluation of the value of products obtained per tonne of processed waste by four strategies [thermophilic composting, BSF treatment, anaerobic digestion (AD), BSF treatment followed by anaerobic digestion (BSF + AD)] for food waste (FW) and faeces (F)

Social responsibility. According to a study (Chia S. Y. et al., 2019) [9], BSFL production enables individuals and businesses to access low-cost goods and services, contributing to sustainable livelihoods and participation in value chains. In line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), insect farming offers sustainable food production strategies for smallholder farmers. This approach can reduce poverty (SDG 1) and hunger (SDG 2), conserve water and address sanitation (SDG 6), promote economic growth and employment (SDG 8), and contribute to sustainable industrialisation, local technology development and job creation in low-income communities (SDG 9). It also supports the sustainable use and reduction of food waste (SDG 12) and the protection of biodiversity by offering a sustainable alternative to fishmeal, reducing overfishing and deforestation (SDGs 14 and 15). Overall, biobased production models in the insect breeding industry contribute to the SDGs by engaging stakeholders in agricultural value chains and mitigating the environmental impact of food production.

Public perception. According to a survey conducted in a case study (Raman S. S. et al., 2022) [10]. Public acceptance of black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) used in animal feed is a significant social and cultural challenge, primarily due to their classification as an abhorrent insect and the associated unpleasant odour. Nevertheless, the study shows a growing acceptance of indirect insect consumption among consumers in the United States and the United Kingdom, especially in the context of animal products such as eggs from insect-eating chickens. Over 70% of respondents expressed a willingness and preference to eat eggs from BSFL-fed hens. A significant proportion of consumers were willing to pay 18% more for eggs from insect-fed hens. This recognition shows the potential for premium pricing in the market.

Fig. 3. Sustainable insect production, use in animal feed, contribution to the circular economy and inclusive business models involving smallholder farmers contribute to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 1, 2, 5, 6, 8, 9, 12, 14 and 15

Ensuring public recognition and support from relevant authorities is crucial for the expansion of BSFL businesses and the integration of sustainable BSFL into the food industry. Through collaboration and education, it is possible to transform the perception of BSFL, contributing to the growth of this sustainable approach to animal feed.

In summary, the BSFL recycling business model is a highly innovative and efficient solution for organic waste management. Due to its simple and efficient process, low carbon footprint, economic viability and recognition by the waste management industry and international organisations, it is well positioned to play a significant role in sustainable waste management practices in the future. The sources mentioned above provide a solid foundation for the key features and benefits of the BSFL recycling business model and its potential as a sustainable and economically viable solution for organic waste management.

Conclusions. The study demonstrates that the BSFL recycling model ensures 22% higher organic waste conversion efficiency compared to regular composting approaches. Specifically, BSFL bioconversion allows to transform up to 80% of input mass into valuable products, while traditional composting hardly exceeds 50-60% conversion rates.

Furthermore, the BSFL model contributes to mitigating climate change impacts by reducing greenhouse gas emissions from food waste treatment. The research quantifies that GHG emissions per ton of handled residuals are 35% lower under the BSFL scenario in comparison to landfilling or incineration.

The application of a case study methodology enabled assessing the economic viability of BSFL recycling in conjunction with circular business models. The findings highlight the prospects of achieving dual economic and environmental sustainability goals through incentivizing businesses in the waste management sector to adopt BSFLcentered approaches.

Considering the obtained results, local authorities could facilitate wider transitioning to BSFL-based organic waste treatment by subsidizing initial infrastructure investments for enterprises. Further studies need to focus on life cycle analysis across different regions to evaluate the scalability potential of the BSFL model. Overall, incentivizing BSFL recycling emerges as an actionable strategy to drive progress towards sustainable waste management practices.

Areas for further research of the BSFL model.

There are several areas for further research into the BSFL model and sustainable waste management in general. One area of research could focus on the scalability of the BSFL model and its applicability to different regions and waste streams. Another area of research could be the integration of the BSFL model with other sustainable waste management techniques, such as composting and anaerobic digestion, to create a more comprehensive and efficient waste management system. Furthermore, further research could explore the potential of the BSFL model to create new revenue streams and economic opportunities for businesses and communities. Finally, there is a need for more research into the social and cultural factors that influence the adoption and implementation of sustainable waste management models such as the BSFL model.

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