Circular Economy at Agrumaria
Agrumaria’s production system stands as a paragon of the circular economy, wherein every aspect of the citrus processing chain is optimized for sustainability and resource efficiency.
The journey begins with the harvesting of citrus fruits, which are then processed to extract valuable products such as NFC (Not From Concentrate) juice, juice concentrate, essential oils, and pulp.
During this process, citrus waste is generated, including citrus pulp (Pastazzo), which is then diverted into two sustainable pathways: 1. Biogas production, where the organic waste is converted into biogas, a renewable energy source that can be used to power operations or feed into the energy grid. 2. Livestock feed, whereby the citrus pulp becomes a nutritious component of animal feed, thus diverting waste from landfills and contributing to the agricultural sector.
The water used in the production process is carefully managed.
The water extracted from the juice concentration system is evaporated and reused for cleaning purposes, minimizing the demand for fresh water. Any wastewater generated undergoes treatment at a dedicated water treatment plant before being discharged into surface waters, ensuring environmental protection.
Moreover, the system produces natural flavours and citrus water, which have applications in nutraceuticals, further extending the usage of citrus by-products. Finally, the mud from the water purification process is not wasted; it is transformed into agricultural fertilizer, returning nutrients back to the soil and supporting the growth of new crops.
This meticulous approach to processing ensures that the entire lifecycle of the product is considered, from the initial fruit to the final by-products, each element serving a purpose beyond its primary use. It is a system that not only reduces waste and conserves resources but also contributes to the creation of additional value streams, embodying the core principles of the circular economy.
By aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Clean Water and Sanitation (SDG 6) and Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12), Agrumaria’s production system not only exemplifies sustainable practices but also demonstrates a commitment to global environmental and social objectives.