Social Life Cycle Assessment of Solar Dryer House for Postharvest Loss Management Technology in Tanzania

Abstract

Agricultural products are dried to improve their life-span, enable storage stability, and reduce postharvest losses. Open-sun crop drying is the most popular method in Sub-Saharan Africa because it has a lower energy cost. However, this method is more often unsuitable due to climatic conditions in some areas, resulting in poor-quality drying and spoiled food products. Solar dryer house technology is designed to address challenges related to cleaner energy costs for efficient post-harvest loss management. Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment (LCSA) is a methodology used to integrate a compatible analysis of three pillars of sustainability: economy, environment, and society. Social Life Cycle Assessment (S-LCA), on the other hand, is a methodology used to cover the social aspects of sustainability. This article examines the S-LCA of solar dryer house technology for post-harvest loss management. It found that S-LCA is a useful framework for sustainability assessment and social impact estimation for analyzing the effects of products or services on stakeholders at local, national, and global levels beyond environmental and economic impact. The article contributes to knowledge and understanding of UNEP and SETAC guidelines in Africa.