Palm oil waste in Malaysia presents significant environmental and management challenges, as the country is one of the world’s largest palm oil producers. The industry generates substantial amounts of waste, including empty fruit bunches (EFBs), palm oil mill effluent (POME), and palm kernel shells (PKS). Efforts to manage these wastes sustainably include converting them into bioenergy or incorporating them into building materials, reducing environmental impact while adding economic value.

BioLoop Sdn Bhd utilizes biotechnology and Black Soldier Fly Larvae (BSFL) to transform organic waste into valuable products, such as protein and fertilizer. This method is faster and more sustainable than traditional waste management processes, reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The larvae are fed palm kernel expeller and palm kernel cake, producing protein and organic fertilizer, which can be reintegrated into the economy.

In addition to improving sustainability, this approach can reduce the demand for fishmeal in animal feed, thus supporting healthier ocean ecosystems. The Malaysian government supports the adoption of BSF technology for food waste management, offering grants to local municipalities.

BioLoop aims to expand its operations to East Malaysia and Indonesia, capitalizing on the large volumes of underutilized palm oil waste. The company’s long-term growth plans focus on replicating its successful model with local partnerships in Indonesia and establishing co-located sites at palm oil mills.

Furthermore, the Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB) works with stakeholders to develop policies and technologies for better waste management, including biogas capture, biomass-to-energy conversion, and the creation of value-added products. These efforts contribute to a circular economy, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and support sustainability in the palm oil industry.

 

Photo 1: The BioLoop Intelligent Feeding System is a turnkey solution which comprises
a robotic arm, automated feeder and an array of conveyor belts to control 4 main functions
depalletising, harvesting, feeding and palletising -Picture taken from The Malaysian Reserve

 

Photo 2: BSF love to lay their eggs in crevices in nature. BioLoop’s egg trap mimics
that by providing a large surface area for BSF to oviposit -Picture taken from The Malaysian Reserve

 

Source: Mardhiah A. (2024, May 9^th). Innovative solutions address Malaysia’s palm oil waste challenge. The Malaysian Reserve.

https://themalaysianreserve.com/2024/05/09/innovative-solutions-address-malaysias-palm-oil-waste-challenge/

 

Date of Input: 20/03/2025 | Updated: 20/03/2025 | ainzubaidah