Not really a waste! Exploring sustainable ways of managing waste from post-harvest processing of oil palm by households in Twifo Wawase community of the Central Region of Ghana

To help achieve sustainable development and reduce the impact of improper waste disposal, all aspects of
waste disposal must be looked at. This study explored how rural households, especially women (who
processed palm fruit and extracted palm oil for household use) disposed of the solid and liquid residue that
is left after the process. A qualitative approach with descriptive research design was used to collect primary
data from study participants. Purposive sampling was used to select 20 participants (women) for focus
group discussion, whereas some women leaders of the community were also interviewed to gain in-depth
knowledge on the subject matter. An observation checklist was also used as data collection tools. Data
collected were analyzed systematically, by taking into consideration, the various themes of the study.
Study participants indicated that the palm tree has endless value as they saw its usefulness from the fruits to
the tree’s kernel. It was further revealed that whereas some residents and participants would dispose of the
waste indiscriminately, several other places value on the by-product as being useful. The fiber waste was
either treated to be used as fertilizers or as energy fuel for domestic activities. Though the palm kernel was
mainly used for palm kernel oil for cooking and other purposes, they were sometimes hoarded and sold for
money to buyers although this was seldomly done due to inadequate market for it. It was therefore
recommended to the local government and other community-based organizations in the district pay
attention to investing in sustainable ways with which the waste from palm trees could be used as a resource
in the circular economy. Groups and agencies are also recommended to further educate the women on
other means to use the waste as this would not only transform the livelihood of the households by reducing
poverty but also be employed as a conduit to prevent pollution and environmental degradation.