ACRRES - Insect larvae and compost worms facility
Good to know
In short- Residual streams converted into valuable resources
- Insect and worm cultivation from lab to practice
- Applications as feed and fertiliser
The ACRRES facility for insect larvae and compost worms focuses on developing new technologies and applications involving these organisms. By breeding insect larvae and compost worms on residual streams, we convert organic waste into high-value products and contribute to a circular bioeconomy.
What can you do at this facility?
At the rearing facility, we carry out standard tests to convert residual streams into valuable resources using insect larvae and compost worms. On the ACRRES site, a dedicated climate-controlled container enables precise rearing conditions.
Insect larvae transform organic residues into new larval biomass and frass (insect manure). The larvae – for example, those of the black soldier fly – contain proteins and fats and can be used as animal feed to replace less sustainable feed ingredients. Insect frass serves as a fertiliser rich in valuable nutrients such as phosphate and nitrogen.
Compost worms process organic waste into vermicompost. The protein-rich worms can also be used as animal feed. In this way, vegetable, fruit and plant waste is converted into valuable raw materials.
The agronomic performance of the resulting products is tested in pot and field trials.
The facility is part of the ACRRES Application Centre for Green Resources and Sustainable Energy of Wageningen University & Research. Together with producers of insects and worms, technology developers, end users and agri-food companies, we work on more efficient and sustainable production systems.
Who is this facility for?
The facility is relevant for companies in the agri-food sector, technology development, and insect or worm production. It also serves parties looking to utilise or break down residual streams, or to integrate new biobased products into their value chain. In addition, we are a practice-oriented partner for research institutes and public bodies working on sustainable biomass innovation.
“Insects and worms are catalysts in the circular economy, converting organic waste into new animal feeds and fertilisers.”
- Hellen Elissen
- Expert insect larvae and compost worms
Why this facility?
We offer:
- Rearing systems from lab to practice scale
- Expertise in insect larvae, compost worms and organic residual streams
- Application of larvae and worms as animal feed
- Application of frass and compost as fertilisers
- Broad network of knowledge partners and companies
What else can you do at ACRRES?
Do you have a question about this facility?
Contact our expert.
dr. HJH (Hellen) Elissen
Expert insect larvae and compost worms