Transformation and utilization of mushroom baglog waste into sustainable energy: a circular method via charcoal briquette fabrication

The trash from oyster mushroom baglog generated during growing has environmental issues if inadequately managed, since it can elevate organic waste levels and its decomposition generates hazardous methane gas. This project sought to apply circular economy concepts by transforming mushroom baglog waste into charcoal briquettes, thereby offering a sustainable alternative energy source through a Research and Development (R&D) methodology. The study was conducted at an oyster mushroom manufacturing facility, evaluating five distinct formulations of baglog waste coupled with starch as a natural binder (ratios: 1:0, 1:1, 1:2, 2:3, and 3:2). The production method entailed the carbonization of baglog waste, amalgamation with starch, and formation into briquettes, succeeded by assessments of calorific value, ignition point, moisture content, and ash content. Among the formulations, Sample E (3:2 ratio) exhibited superior performance, attaining the greatest calorific value of 4,564 kcal/kg, the ignition point of 167 °C, a moisture content of 5.37% (oven-dried, 105 °C, ASTM E871-82), and the ash content of 16.41%. The economic study corroborated the viability of this technique, revealing a break-even point of 104 units and a benefit–cost ratio of 1.442, signifying profitable potential. The public response to the briquettes was overwhelmingly favorable, emphasizing their utility as an eco-friendly fuel substitute. This research illustrates that transforming baglog trash into charcoal briquettes constitutes a sustainable approach that provides economic and environmental advantages.