SURFOLY: Sustainable Ruminants Feed with Olive Pomace and Polyphenols Enriched Charred Olive Stone
The
SURFOLY project aims to address the challenges faced by the small-ruminant sector in Lebanon, which has hindered its development and trapped herders in poverty. One of the significant challenges is the high cost of animal feed, which accounts for more than 70% of total farm expenses. In response to this, SURFOLY aims to find a sustainable solution by producing a new innovative feed that utilizes olive oil by-products.
Circular Economy ApproachThe SURFOLY project adopts a circular economy approach by valorizing waste products from the olive oil industry. Olive pomace, a by-product of olive oil production, and polyphenols enriched charred olive stone are utilized to create a sustainable feed for ruminants.
Project ImpactThe SURFOLY project has several potential impacts, including:
- Valorization of Waste Product: By utilizing olive pomace and charred olive stone, the project contributes to the efficient utilization of waste products generated by the olive oil industry.
- Reduce Animal Feed Cost: The development of an affordable and sustainable feed alternative helps reduce the feed costs, which are a significant expense for farmers.
- Valorization of Char Enriched Manure: The project also explores the potential of valorizing char enriched manure, which can further contribute to the circular economy by creating a valuable resource from organic waste.
- Reduce Methane Emission: By providing an optimized feed formula, the SURFOLY project aims to reduce methane emissions from ruminants, contributing to climate change mitigation efforts.
ObjectivesThe SURFOLY project utilizes a multidisciplinary approach to achieve its objectives:
- Developing Recommendations for Sustainable Rangeland Management: The project assesses grazing trends between small ruminants and olive production, exploring potential interactions and developing recommendations for sustainable rangeland management.
- Enhancing Livelihoods of Vulnerable Communities: By promoting the adoption of sustainable feed alternatives, the SURFOLY project aims to support vulnerable communities and improve their livelihoods.
- Ensuring Resilience Against Climate Change and Economic Shocks: By enhancing sustainable management of resources and reducing dependence on costly feed imports, the project contributes to building resilience against climate change impacts and economic shocks.