What is it about?
This article explores the potential of cocoa waste such as husks, bean shells and mucilage to generate biogas, a clean and sustainable source of energy. The study focuses on rural areas of Colombia affected by armed conflict, where access to energy services remains limited. We analysed 170 cocoa-producing municipalities, all of which are linked to the Peace Agreement, and estimated that the available biomass could supply electricity and gas to more than 800,000 people. In addition to assessing the energy potential, we examined the available technologies, the efficiency of the process and the main challenges, such as the transport of waste or the proper preparation of the material. Beyond the technical aspects, the article proposes an alternative that connects environmental sustainability with social justice, offering a concrete solution to improve the quality of life in rural areas, reduce dependence on illegal economies and contribute to the construction of lasting peace.
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Why is it important?
In this article, we address an issue that we consider urgent and strategic: sustainable access to energy in rural areas of Colombia affected by armed conflict. We propose an innovative and viable alternative based on the use of cocoa waste for biogas production, an abundant but underutilised local resource. What makes our research different is its territorial and practical approach, as we not only estimate the actual energy potential, but also analyse the logistical barriers to its implementation. The value of this work lies in its ability to articulate the energy transition with peace processes, rural development and environmental justice in historically excluded contexts.
Perspectives
With this article, we hope to make a real contribution to the transformation of rural communities affected by conflict. We show how biogas, produced from cocoa waste, can be a clean energy solution that dignifies rural life, reduces dependence on illegal economies, and supports sustainable peace. We seek to connect science, sustainability, and social justice from a contextual and committed approach.
Dr. Ramon Fernando Colmenares Quintero
Fundación Berstic and Universidad Cooperativa de Colombia
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Assessment of the Potential for Biogas Production in Post-Conflict Rural Areas in Colombia Using Cocoa Residues, Energies, June 2025, MDPI AG,
DOI: 10.3390/en18123091.
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