Clean technology for the tapioca starch industry in Thailand

The tapioca processing industry is considered to be one of the largest food processing industrial sectors in Thailand. However, the growth of the tapioca starch industry has resulted in heavy water pollution as it generates large amount of solid waste and wastewater with high organic content. This study explores the applicability of clean technology options to improve the environmental performance of tapioca starch-processing plants in Thailand. Eight Tapioca starch plants were selected for an exclusive analysis of the dynamics of clean technology development and adoption. Proposed options mainly involve water reduction and energy conservation. These include reuse and recycling of water, technology modification in the production process, and use of biogas to substitute fuel oil for burners. Implementation of these proposed alternatives to real companies shows that the reduction of starch loss, and water and fuel cost savings can be achieved. (C) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.