Estimating farmers’ net change in profit when using insect frass as an input for Brassica crops

Abstract This research addresses a knowledge gap in understanding the economic feasibility and ecological benefits of frass in circular agriculture. Its primary objective is to estimate the net change in profit that farmers can expect by adding insect frass to their array of crop and soil health promoters used in Brassica production. As such, the study contributes to estimating the role of circular agricultural practices in promoting environmental sustainability and economic efficiency. Assuming applications of frass occur in the current season, in four years and again in eight years, frass is expected to consistently generate an increase in net profit in Brassica production. Specifically, conventional broccoli production having the highest increase and conventional Brussels sprouts production the lowest increase. Frass is expected to be economically justifiable, even attractive over the years for farmers. While reducing the need for alternative chemical pesticides, frass could contribute to improved soil life and quality. It facilitates balanced and efficient plant growth and contributes to the plant’s systemic resistance to pests and diseases. Frass offers opportunities for arable farmers who are expected to achieve higher profits while using less chemical inputs.