Czech scientists from Mendel University are collaborating with Cambodian companies to convert mango pits into energy. In Cambodia, where mango is a major crop, large amounts of waste, including mango stones, are generated during fruit processing. These scientists have developed a method to make fuel briquettes from these stones, offering an alternative to firewood and reducing landfill waste and deforestation.
These briquettes have high a calorific value and low emissions, suitable for use in stoves and boilers. Additionally, the mango cores can be used to produce mango butter for food and cosmetics, and the residue after oil extraction can serve as cattle feed. This initiative, supported by the Partnership for Sustainable Development Goals program, aims to reduce waste, utilize alternative energy sources, and protect the local environment. Cambodia, one of the world's largest mango producers, can significantly benefit from this sustainable use of a previously discarded resource.