RRD4P: FRDC Contribution: Closing the Loop: Black Soldier Fly technology to convert agricultural waste

Black soldier fly farming (BSF) is an emerging industry that provides a low-cost waste management solution for converting agricultural waste (in particular manure) into high quality fertiliser (BSF castings or frass) and protein (BSF larvae as animal feed). However, the BSF products cannot be developed further in Australia until biosecurity, environmental and food safety risks are addressed and the agronomic and economic value of frass fertiliser is evaluated to increase adoption. This investment will build on the previous project by further developing frass as a high quality soil conditioner and slow release fertiliser, tailored to specific crops and soil types. In addition, the frass products will be physically modified to enhance delivery (pelletising, granulating and encapsulating) so that they are easy to handle, store, transport and apply. The agronomic and economic benefits as well as the biosecurity and environmental risks associated with the application of frass products to cropping will be quantified.