Abstract

Sugarcane molasses distillery effluent is produced in large volumes by refineries in Barbados and other territories in the region throughout the year. Because of its smell and colour, it has a negative effect on the aesthetic appeal of the environment. Most is disposed into the sea and as result of a combination of high biological oxygen demand, chemical oxygen demand, suspended solids and dissolved solids, elevated temperature and low pH, it degrades the marine ecosystems on which it impacts. This, in turn, affects fisheries management, coastal zone management and biodiversity conservation. Studies have shown that by suitable treatment, distillery effluent can be convened to fuel, fertilizer, animal feeds and food yeast thus reducing the hazards associated with discharging rum refinery effluent in both terrestrial and marine environments. This paper reviews methods of disposal and uses of sugarcane molasses distillery effluent. An attempt is made to show how the utilization of rum distillery effluent in agriculture can enhance fisheries development, promote integrated coastal zone management and fortify biodiversity conservation in Caribbean territories.

PDF Preview