projects
Closed-loop waste system for agriculture and livelihoods
Completed
Challenge
In displacement settings, ineffective waste management can create environmental issues that impact human and ecosystem health – but closed-loop energy systems can reduce negative impacts and make better use of waste to power other activities.
Solution
UNHCR will introduce a closed-loop system in the Tongogara refugee settlement that uses household waste as an input for livestock farming – and pig-farming waste as inputs for biogas production.
Impact
Better waste management, improved environmental and human health, increased livelihoods opportunities, and more sustainable energy to power further livelihoods activities.
Project impact
20%
increase in organic waste separation providing feed inputs for pig rearing
70%
reduction in pig manure unsafely discharged, diverting it to gas production
1
biodigester installed, providing biogas & bioslurry for fertilizer & to power livelihoods
Other information
The behaviour change campaign has been key, enabling the project to achieve 68% accuracy in correct waste separation. This provides inputs for the biodigester and for animal feed, reducing waste directed to landfill.
The bio-slurry from the biodigester is supporting another innovation pilot, providing fertilizer to create living fences to protect crops.