Balancing Agriculture and Industry through Waste Utilization for Sugarcane Sustainability

Abstract

The Bio-Circular-Green Economy initiative adopted in Thailand encourages using sugar mill by-products for food production, benefiting both farmers and the environment. This study assesses the feasibility of applying by-products from the sugar mills and distilleries into sugar plantations for irrigation, fertilization, and soil conditioning. It addresses challenges in sustainable waste utilization and offers recommendations. This study reviews literature, conducts preliminary surveys, and analyzes samples from sugarcane fields in Kanchanaburi, Thailand. The findings reveal that while vinasse and filter cake demonstrate promise as soil conditioners, their application requires careful consideration of soil type and pre-treatment processes. Vinasse, rich in essential nutrients, can benefit sandy soils by improving microbial activity and nutrient availability. Filter cake exhibits positive effects on soil texture, water permeability, and mineral content. Treated wastewater can be used for ferti-irrigation. However, about one-third of farmers lack confidence in its use due to concerns about limited nutrient availability, high transportation costs, and potential negative impacts on health, agriculture, and the ecosystem. To enhance farmer adaptability and ensure the successful utilization of waste, several challenges must be addressed, including: (1) assessing financial and technical feasibility of waste transportation and value-added products, (2) overcoming regulatory barriers related to transportation and utilization of industrial wastes, (3) disseminating knowledge to farmers regarding proper fertilization and waste utilization practices, and (4) implementing long-term monitoring on ecosystem health and conducting sustainability assessments of the waste utilization to affirm sustainability attainment.