How will the circular economy enable sustainability in the utilization of trout farming waste?

Abstract

The present study proposes a circular economy model for an aquaculture company to maximize the utilization of waste. The objective of the research was to evaluate the feasibility of converting rainbow trout processing residues into sustainable fish meal, thereby reducing environmental impacts and improving resource efficiency. The analysis of waste generated during evisceration revealed that approximately 40% of each trout corresponded to residues, thereby highlighting the inefficient use of available resources. The research adopted a documentary and exploratory approach, taking extant information on innovative subjects. A quantitative methodology was employed to collect numerical data to assess the potential increase in profits derived from waste valorization. The process entails the cooking, pressing, and drying of the residues, resulting in a dehydrated mass that is subsequently milled. This process has been devised to optimize the utilization of all materials in accordance with circularity principles. The indicators MCI, IC, and FIFO were estimated to measure circularity, biomass reincorporation, and nutrient retention efficiency. From a total of 4,000 kilograms of processed fish per month, 40% of by-products were obtained, yielding 25% of the total, resulting in 400 kilograms per month of sustainable fish meal, which served as the basis for calculating the system indicators. The results demonstrate adequate valorization, effective material reincorporation, and good nutrient retention, supporting the technical, environmental, and economic feasibility of the proposed model for the aquaculture industry.