Engineers from the Malaysia branch of Nottingham University have developed new processes to minimise waste from the palm oil industry. In recent years, palm oil has come under increasing scrutiny for the deforestation and environmental damage associated with its production. While questions remain over its long-term sustainability, reducing the industry’s short-term environmental impact is paramount. Working with local Malaysian partners, the researchers built a zero-waste management system for the mills. The pilot plant, known as the Integrated Waste Recovery and Regeneration System (REGEN), converts all solid biomass waste and POME into building materials and bioenergy. “We can also use the palm debris to make a bio-fertiliser that retains the nutrients from the palm tree, cutting chemical use and creating healthier soil. This in turn improves the palm fruit yield and the quality of the crude oil,” said project lead Professor Denny K S Ng.

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The Engineer