Addressing Malnutrition through Bio-Digesters, Black Soldier Fly and Sustainable Practices

Addressing Malnutrition through Bio-Digesters, Black Soldier Fly and Sustainable Practices

The University campus initiatives promote sustainable practices that directly contribute to SDG 2. The university’s approach to managing food waste through bio-digesters plays a significant role in the fight against malnutrition and food insecurity. By converting food waste from campus canteens into natural compost, the university demonstrates a sustainable model that addresses two critical areas:

Reduction of food waste: The university’s data shows a marked reduction in food waste generation over recent years, thanks to continuous awareness programs and the deployment of signage and policies that reinforce mindful food consumption.

Compost production: The use of bio-digesters allows the conversion of food waste into nutrient-rich compost, which enhances soil health. Healthy soil can, in turn, improve agricultural yields, contributing to increased food availability and nutrition, thereby addressing the root causes of malnutrition.

Black Soldier Fly: The University’s Black Soldier Fly production unit rears these insects to decompose rotting food materials. The flies serve as a sustainable protein source, providing feed for fish, and their excreta is also an excellent composting material

Data and Progress in Reducing Food Waste

The following table highlights food waste reduction efforts at the University:

This data illustrates the effectiveness of the university’s waste management system, which contributes to overall food security by minimising waste and maximising the use of available food resources.

Bio-Digester Technology and its Impact

The University utilises bio-digesters to convert food waste into compost. This technology has several environmental and economic benefits:

• Saving costs on fertilisers by using compost.
• Saving resources by improving soil health, reducing the need for irrigation, and retaining nutrients in the soil.
• Reducing greenhouse gas emissions, which are commonly associated with decomposing organic waste, contributes to global efforts to combat climate change.

Food Matrix and Sustainable Waste Management Awareness Programs 

Food Wastage and Recycling Index              

Table 3 Food Wastage and Recycling Index

These initiatives not only foster a sustainable environment on campus but also address larger societal challenges, such as malnutrition and food insecurity. As the University continues to grow and expand its sustainable initiatives, the university remains a leader in promoting health, sustainability, and food security for future generations.