The company “Belinda Animals” aims to establish a pioneering centre for the breeding of larvae of the large mealworm (Lat. Tenebrio Molitor), an insect with the extraordinary ability to biodegrade plastic, especially polystyrene, together with organic waste. Larvae eat plastic and food of organic origin, “process” it completely with the help of microorganisms in their digestive organs, and utilise it for their growth and development. After feeding, there are no residues of pollutants or plastic in the larvae or in their faeces. This process leads to the production of protein-rich organic material that is ideal for the production of animal feed. No pesticides or chemicals are used in the rearing of these insects, and the environment is protected by minimising water and electricity consumption. This innovation has the potential to revolutionise waste management practices while promoting sustainable agriculture. If this initiative were applied to just 1% of farms in Serbia, it is estimated that greenhouse gas emissions could be reduced by 348,430 tonnes over a 20-year period.
Impact achieved
348,430 t CO2 eq
GHG emission reduction over 20 years
Value
No Data Found
Location
Plastic-Eating Insects
The idea for biodegradation of plastics with the aid of mealworm larvae is one of the 16 innovative solutions, geared to accelerate the green transition, supported by the EU within the ‘EU for the Green Agenda in Serbia’ initiative.
