Assessment of the impact of processing manure with Black Soldier Fly (BSF) technology on Green House Gas (GHG) emissions from soil
Increasing world population and wealth have increased demand for food to feed the growing population leading to mass production of livestock and generation of large quantities of manure. Soil amended with manure has many benefits including increased nutrient supply, enhanced soil structure and improved crop yield. However, there are increasing concerns in terms of the environmental risks associated with applying manure to land especially greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Black Soldier Fly larvae (BSFL; Hermetia illucens) farming is an emerging technology that converts manure into protein for animal feed. Fly casting or frass, a major waste by-product of BSF farming, has been shown to have potential as a soil amendment. Nevertheless, the impact of amending soil with frass on GHG is not well understood and could limit its potential use due to strict regulations.
Client:
The University of Western Australia
Research Objective:
To investigate the impact applying BSF frass as a fertilizer for soil amendment on GHG emission compared to fresh poultry manure or chemical fertilizer
Research Outcomes:
This information can inform and encourage uptake of BSF technology as a waste management strategy across the Wheatbelt region of Western Australia which could result in:
1) in increased profits due to more efficient waste management
2) generation of alternative and sustainable fertiliser and decreased carbon footprint, and
3) adoption of additional sustainable agricultural practices.
Ooid Scientific 