The study investigated the utilisation of insects in the disposal of plastics on a farm. The work was carried out for Savonia University of Applied Sciences’ InsectSavo project, which develops insect farming.
The utilisation of insects in the processing of plastics was investigated in the study. The feasibility of the work was assessed using a berry growing farm as an example. The factors promoting and preventing the implementation and the most crucial research needs were surveyed. The study included a review of the constraints of the legislation, a survey of the properties and contaminants of plastics, a study of the risks of chemicals, contaminants and organisms in the plastic and risk management options for insect biological properties, and a proposal on on-farm plastic pretreatment. The study assessed the feasibility and scale of the solution and a comparison with the solutions in use and explained the most crucial additional research needs.
Apila Group carried out the work for Savonia University of Applied Sciences’ InsectSavo project. The Insect Savo project aims to develop insect farming economically and according to the principles of sustainable development. Knowledge of the insect industry and information about insect breeding and nutritional values will increase during the project. The project brings together different companies in the insect industry, from primary production to consumers. The project organises information sessions and workshops on insect breeding.
Main funders of the project: The Regional Council of Pohjois-Savo and European Regional Development Fund.
The project contributors include Savonia University of Applied Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Natural Resources Institute Finland and Ylä-Savo Vocational College.
Read more about the project:
https://insectsavo.savonia.fi/