NEEM VALUE CHAIN

ENEA has developed an innovative technology to use neem cake –a byproduct of the processing of neem tree seeds as insecticide, nematicide and biological fertilizer for applications in agriculture and animal husbandry.

The use of Neem cake is included as a best practice in FAO’s TECA (TEChnologies and practices for small Agricultural producers) platform, for the diffusion and exchange of sustainable technologies and practices for small farmers.

Reuse of an industrial waste, neem cake, as insecticide and fertilizer

Benefits and Advantages:

• production of low-cost natural fertilizers and insecticides
• reduction of diseases associated with vector insects or abuse of chemicals
• energy saving by waste product reuse

ENEA Service:

• technology transfer
• consulting
• technical support
• training

Potential applications in developing countries

ENEA can make this best practice available, also with the support of analytical technologies for the quality control of the whole supply chain products. The skills and knowledge matured in research on Neem can be made available to support production activities aimed at exploiting Neem or other plants having similar characteristics (Moringa).

Keywords: neem, food safety, energy saving, sustainable agriculture and organic farming, fertilizers, insecticides, nematicides, recycling, reuse, industrial waste