Swiss Partners
CEAS Centre Ecologique Albert Schweitzer, Neuchâtel
www.ceas.ch
Niels Bourquin
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Swiss Contribution
CEAS is a non-governmental organization that has been active in development cooperation since 1980. CEAS is a recognized, benevolent organization which implements innovative and sustainable solutions in cooperation with local populations and established research institutes. CEAS aims to promote sustainable development with an ethical approach that is line with Albert Schweitzer’s “Reverence for Life”.
Description
The production of essential oils in Madagascar using very inefficient manufacturing techniques consumes extremely large amounts of firewood. As part of the REPIC project, an efficient pilot distillation plant is being implemented as part of a sustainable production chain for processing ginger into essential oil in the Mandialaza community; located on the edge of the protected Anjozorobe-Angavo region. Preparation for multiplication and replication of the innovative facilities on a larger scale is an important part of the project. In a first step, the project focuses on the rural community of Mandialaza. Later, the activities will be concentrated on Atsinanana and Analanjirofo; both regions with large production capacities for essential oils.
Results
The 1:10 scale prototype developed by Fireforce Technology was successfully put into operation in Switzerland. For the efficient realisation of the project, the 1:3 scale prototype was built and tested directly in Madagascar. Based on the experience gained, the project was better focussed on distillation and the supply of firewood. The drying of ginger will not be pursued further.