Sustainability – Waste management. Example in Benin using pineapple waste to improve soil fertility and promote energy self-sufficiency

The VLIR-UOS-funded VALPIRES project was officially launched in Benin by the partner universities, marking a major step forward in sustainable agriculture and renewable energy solutions. This research project aims to use pineapple residues to improve soil fertility while promoting energy self-sufficiency, thus responding to major agricultural and environmental challenges in the region.

COLEAD played a key role in bringing together the partner universities – KU Leuven, the University of Abomey-Calavi (UAC) and UNSTIM – to develop the project proposal. By facilitating collaboration between scientific research and stakeholders in the pineapple sector, COLEAD contributes to effective knowledge exchange and sustainable agricultural innovation.

This project is a continuation of the actions carried out by COLEAD, particularly in terms of validation and dissemination of innovative agricultural practices. By integrating the expertise of academic institutions and producer cooperatives such as FENACOPAB, VALPIRES adopts a holistic approach that supports both the economic development of local farmers and the preservation of the environment.