ST GEORGE’S, Grenada, (Gov.gd)– The use of renewable resources is one of the approaches used by the Grenada Cocoa Association (GCA) to enhance the process of drying their cocoa beans at one of its facilities. GCA through funding and technical support from the Global Environmental Facility (GEF) commissioned its first Solar Drying Wall at the Mt Horne Cocoa Fermenting Station.
The use of renewable resources is essential to transforming the agricultural sector, through increased productivity, thus maintaining economic stability. This will also minimize demands for the utilization of finite natural resources, which can have a positive impact on our environment.
During the launch of the operation on Thursday 30, January 2020, the minister for agriculture and lands Yolande Bain – Horsford cut the ribbon to open the facility. She also applauded the initiative as one which adds to the thrust of building climate resilience.
“There is no denying that the advent of climate change requires developing states like ours to build resilience, and this project is certainly part of this thrust. [Given that] this project seeks to increase Grenada’s Cocoa drying capacity in a clean, sustainable, cost-effective manner.”
The first phase of the project is completed at a cost of USD$166,851 with USD$89,593 contributed by GEF. This technology utilizes energy from the sun to produce heat as an alternative to burning hydrocarbons. This will create a product that is free of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAH) contaminants, increase drying capacity; reduce energy costs and create resilient infrastructure for thousands of farmers.
This environmentally friendly approach, according to the chairman of the GCA, Christopher Williams, propels the organization to make further advancements in the cocoa sector and safeguard the industry.
“We are well on our way to pursue projects that conserve biodiversity, restricted use of persistent organic pesticides, capacity building projects and engage in climate change resilience projects. The Solar drying system, Jouvay Chocolate Factory, crop insurance, renewable energy, the production of low cadmium cocoa and restricted use of farm chemicals are some of our strengths as we go forward.”
The GCA’s chairman went on to say, “At the start of the Cocoa production this year, we increased the cost by ten (10) cents. I am pleased to announce that as from Monday morning (February 3rd, 2020) the price of cocoa will go back to one dollar and fifty cents (1.50).”
Trevor Thompson chairman GEF Small Grants Program National Steering Committee believes this initiative will, “Reinvigorate the industry by creating a dependable marketplace for farmers.”
“You don’t have to pay for the energy; you don’t have to pay for the drying of cocoa generally, so as the cost of production has been reduced. It is projects like these we want to see, those that would bring a change to the whole process.”
According to the minister, this project: “Epitomizes the notion of true sustainability since it addresses the issues of the people, the planet and the profits. This notion fits well with the theme of this year’s Independence celebrations,” preparing for the future through empowerment growth and long-term sustainable development.
“The ministry of agriculture and lands congratulates and extends best wishes to the Grenada Cocoa Association (GCA) as it endeavors to utilize this sustainable agricultural technique, which has the ability to ensure food and nutrition security for all,” the minister said.
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What an absolute load of rubbish. They have been solar drying cocoa and other products for centuries. In most places in the world it is the only means available for drying.