Sustainable Cocoa for the Americas Solar Dryer Project
Project Dates: June 2006-May 2008
Country: Ecuador
Funder: The World Cocoa Foundation and Blommer Chocolate Company
Implementer: Conservación y Desarollo
Overview
The Solar Dryers Project aims to increase cocoa quality through improved drying and storage. High moisture content due to improper drying or storage results in farmers receiving a discounted rate in the marketplace. By reducing the moisture content, farmers can receive a greater price for their cocoa. The project builds upon the US Agency for International Development funded PRONORTE Project which trains farmers through Farmer Field Schools. The Solar Dryers Project provides materials and instructions for the PRONORTE Farmer Field School graduates to build solar dryers, thus facilitating proper drying and storage of cocoa. The project is active in the provinces of Esmeraldas, Orellana, and Sucumbios.
Project Objective:
- Provide the materials and training to Farmer Field School graduates for the construction of 500 solar dryers.
Progress to Date
- 225 Solar Dryers Constructed. A solar dryer is a structure placed over the ground, made with local materials such as wood or bamboo, and covered with thermal plastic (common in the construction of greenhouses). A 48 square meter solar dryer can dry all of the cocoa from a 3 hectare farm, or approximately 12 to 15 100-pound sacks monthly depending on climatic conditions. The dryers can also be used for other products including coffee and corn during periods of lower cocoa harvest.
Success Story: Solar Dryers Increase Efficiency and Improve Quality