Circular Economy Indicators for the Assessment of Waste and By-Products from the Palm Oil Sector

Abstract

A circular economy (CE) promotes the reuse, reincorporation and valuation of waste and by-products under the framework of sustainable development through models and indicators that evaluate scenarios of second use and reduction in non-incorporated outputs to reduce negative externalities and pressures on the dimensions of development. A CE model applied to the transformation process of RFF in agro-industries is developed, which consists in the identification of the residue coefficients of EFB (22.48% ± 0.8), fiber (15.58% ± 0.49), husk (6.03% ± 0.66) and ash (0.55% ± 1.67). Subsequently, the valuation trends of potential second use were verified through a systematic review, which allowed the construction of the scenario of avoided costs of USD 678,721.5, a product of the total use of the outputs under bioenergy and nutrient source approaches. Finally, the RRSFM indicator was constructed, which can reach the level of 72% and a degree of improvement of 26% by 2026. In parallel, the HCRRS indicator revealed a reduction of 57.1%, 59.6% and 82.8% in emissions of t CO2-eq product in the comparison of scenarios for the use of residues and by-products of palm oil from agro-industries in the Casanare Department.

Circular Economy Approaches in the Palm Oil Industry: Enhancing Profitability through Waste Reduction and Product Diversification

“…This approach advocates for a self-sustaining system that not only stimulates economic advancement but also facilitates the preservation of the environment [25,26]. This approach is supported by models and indicators designed to assess the sustainability and economic viability of circular economy practices, highlighting the potential for cost savings and emission reductions [27].…”

Development of Integrated Coconut Agroindustry from a Circular Economy Perspective: A Literature Review

“…This is achieved through the utilization of models and indicators that assess scenarios involving secondary utilization and a reduction in unincorporated outputs. These measures aim to mitigate negative externalities and reduce pressures on various dimensions of development [19]. This concept focuses on efficient utilization of resources, waste reduction, and regeneration of natural resources.…”

Underutilized Malaysian Agro-Industrial Wastes as Sustainable Carbon Sources for Lactic Acid Production

“…This biomass comprises elements like EFB, oil palm fronds (OPF), oil palm trunks (OPT), palm kernel cakes (PKC), and palm oil mill effluent (POME), as outlined by Boonsawang and Youravong [46]. Study by Bejarano et al [47] reported that merely 23% of waste and by-products from agro-industry are recycled back into the production process, leaving the bulk of these resources untapped. A breakdown of the weight percentage of these oil palm elements is shown in Figure 4 [48].…”