**Conflict of interest**

*Elements of Bioeconomy*

soap production.

*finished product in liquid form, respectively.*

**Figure 7.**

extracted from the dried waste via ashing, i.e. burning in a partially closed environment (e.g. in a drum) so as to minimize oxygen (**Figure 7**). Clean water is used to extract potassium hydroxide from the ash. It is then concentrated and used for local

*Stages in local soap production from agricultural waste. (a)–(d) represent ashing of dried cocoa pods/plantain waste in a carefully constructed metal drum, the soap production process, finished product in solid form and* 

Most people prefer to make single oil soaps. Due to its relatively cheaper cost, palm kernel oil is commonly used. However, it is possible to mix two or more oils, e.g. blending 80% palm oil and 20% palm kernel oil or using 75% palm oil, 20% palm kernel oil and 5% vegetable oil so as to improve the soap quality. It is believed that the higher the ratio of palm oil and vegetable oil to that of palm kernel oil, the better the quality of the soap. The oil is poured into a steel drum and placed on a gentle fire, starting towards a slow boil. Potassium hydroxide solution is to be added gradually while keeping the heat steady for about 2–6 hours (depending on the quantity and the intensity of the applied heat). The mixture is to be stirred continually in a predetermined direction (depending on the convenience of the one doing the stirring), until it begins to solidify. At this point, the intensity of the heat should be reduced and the content removed from the fire to finish off slowly. Essential oils and/or colorant could be added as desired once the soap is finished cooking. The soap could be "picked" to release the air trapped in it from stirring. It can then be taken out and spread on a flat wooden board to dry in a cool, well-ventilated place for up to 8 hours. The process of local soap making is very simple, straightforward and easy to understand by stakeholders (unemployed youths, women, etc.). It does not require technical details, and the method could be mastered by people who do not have formal education. More so, it could serve as a means of enhancing their livelihood and improving household income. It is generally believed to be eco-friendly, being a natural product

and also friendly to the skin. Hence, the demand for the product is very high.

In this chapter, we present the possibilities of using simple waste management techniques in farms and rural set-ups, especially in developing countries.

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**7. Conclusion**

The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest.
