Plan de manejo integral de residuos derivados de la extracción de la pulpa de cacao en la hacienda Bellavista, Luz de América, provincia de Azuay-Ecuador

Abstract

Cocoa seeds are a raw material of great economic importance for the country, however, during the extraction process, waste is generated such as the shell, the placenta and the mucilage that affect the crops as they are a source for the dispersion of diseases and decrease the pH of the soil. The main objective of this study is to design a plan for the integral management of residues derived from the extraction of cocoa pulp. In the first place, the study area and the physical characteristics of the area were established, later through interviews and field visits, the current management of the waste was recorded, the percentage composition of each residue with respect to the total and an estimate of the quantity of waste generated, also a diagnosis of the plantation was made, finally by laboratory analysis the physicochemical properties of the residues were determined. Where, the high moisture content (> 80%), volatile matter (> 76%), and macronutrients especially potassium from the shell and placenta were determined. Several strategic lines were established in the management plan, including collection, storage, valorization, and final disposal of waste, as well as environmental education and staff awareness. As conclusions it is obtained that the most viable alternatives for the valorization of the shell are the vermicomposting and the composting and the exudate and the placenta the production of marmalade.