Black Soldier Fly Larvae as a circular solution for organic waste management and sustainable livestock feed in Ghana

Organic waste management and livestock feed security remain critical challenges in Ghana, exacerbated by inefficient waste disposal systems, high feed costs, and environmental degradation. Black Soldier Fly Larvae (BSFL) technology presents an innovative, circular bioeconomy solution by simultaneously addressing these issues through waste bioconversion and sustainable feed production. This study evaluates the feasibility of BSFL technology in Ghana, integrating economic, environmental, and social dimensions. Using a narrative literature review, data from peer-reviewed journals, institutional reports, and case studies were synthesized to assess its potential applications, benefits, and barriers to adoption. Key findings reveal that BSFL-based bioconversion can reduce organic waste volume by up to 85.5%, significantly mitigating landfill dependency and greenhouse gas emissions. Economically, BSFL meal provides a cost-effective alternative to fishmeal and soybean meal, with potential feed cost reductions of up to 30%, enhancing profitability for poultry and aquaculture farmers. Socially, consumer acceptance studies indicate that over 87% of surveyed individuals in Ghana and neighboring countries are open to consuming animal products derived from BSFL-fed livestock. However, challenges such as high initial investment costs, regulatory gaps, and limited public awareness hinder widespread adoption. This study's novelty lies in its comprehensive analysis of BSFL’s integration into Ghana’s circular economy, bridging knowledge gaps on its economic viability, policy implications, and social acceptance. To accelerate large-scale adoption, the study recommends the development of a National Insect Farming Policy, financial incentives for BSFL entrepreneurs, and nationwide public education campaigns. A multi-stakeholder approach involving government agencies, private sector actors, and research institutions is crucial for effective implementation. Urgent action is required to position BSFL as a transformative tool in waste management and food security, ensuring long-term sustainability and resilience in Ghana’s agricultural sector. • Novel comprehensive study on BSFL technology’s feasibility in Ghana’s waste management. • Assesses BSFL meal’s economic viability as a sustainable alternative to fishmeal and soy. • Evaluates policy gaps and investment needs for BSFL adoption in Ghana’s agribusiness sector. • Integrates waste bioconversion efficiency with livestock feed performance analysis. • Provides context-specific recommendations for scaling BSFL-based circular economy models.