Valorization of Garlic (Allium sativum) Leaves for Sustainable Biopesticides, Organic Manure, and Biopolymers As A Circular Economy Approach
Md Abdul Ahad1, A.S.M Anas Ferdous2*, Md. Mehedi Hasan3
Applied Agriculture Sciences 3(1) 1-8 https://doi.org/10.25163/agriculture.3110135
Submitted: 06 January 2025 Revised: 01 March 2025 Published: 04 March 2025
Abstract
Background: Garlic (Allium sativum), a widely cultivated agricultural crop, is valued for its bioactive sulfur compounds, which exhibit antimicrobial, antioxidant, and pesticidal properties. While garlic bulbs are extensively utilized, garlic leaves remain an underutilized by-product in Bangladesh. This study explores the potential of garlic leaves in producing biopesticides, organic manure, and biopolymers, promoting sustainable agricultural practices and waste valorization. Methods: Garlic leaves were processed into biopesticides, organic manure, and biopolymers using aqueous extraction, fermentation, and alkali-based starch extraction techniques. The efficacy of garlic-based biopesticides was assessed against common agricultural pests, while the organic manure was evaluated for its nutrient composition and impact on crop growth. Biopolymer films were analyzed for structural integrity and biodegradability. Results: The biopesticide, rich in sulfur compounds such as allicin and ajoene, exhibited comparable efficacy to commercial pesticides in controlling pests like Tetranychus urticae and Scirpophaga incertulas. Garlic-based organic manure enhanced soil fertility, leading to a 32% increase in productivity for sulfur-dependent crops such as onions. The biopolymers derived from garlic leaf starch provided a cost-effective and biodegradable alternative to conventional plastics, demonstrating promising durability and flexibility. Conclusion: The utilization of garlic leaves for biopesticide, organic manure, and biopolymer production presents an eco-friendly alternative to chemical agricultural inputs, contributing to sustainable farming and waste management. Further research is required to optimize production techniques and assess long-term environmental and economic impacts. Policy interventions and industry collaboration could facilitate the large-scale adoption of these sustainable innovations.
Keywords: Garlic Leaves, Biopesticides, Organic Manure, Biopolymers, Agro-waste Recycling, Sustainable Agriculture
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