Alternative Proteins Magazine ISSUE FOCUS 42 October 2025 strated carbon footprints below 1 ton CO₂e per ton of fresh BSF larvae, which is at the low end of the scale for an animal-based product used for feed and petfood. By focusing on actual production conditions and scalable waste management solutions, the findings offer a more nuanced and actionable blueprint for sustainable insect farming, bridging the gap between theoretical modeling and industrial reality. WASTE MANAGEMENT AS PART OF THE SOLUTION This study offers more than just numbers—it provides a roadmap for making insect farming a cornerstone of sustainable agriculture. But beyond feed optimization and energy efficiency, one of the most transformative opportunities lies in waste management. By upcycling food waste and agricultural residues into high-value protein and fertilizer, these insects act as natural decomposers reducing landfill volumes and preventing methane emissions. This isn’t just sustainability; it’s circular economy in action. Furthermore, when applying waste streams as main feedstock for insect farming this will also enable compliance with the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). To support the continued growth of the insect farming sector, it is pivotal to integrate waste valorization into its core operations. At present EU legislation is holding back on fully leveraging this potential. Whether it’s through frass-to-fertilizer innovations or full-scale organic waste conversion, BSF farming is poised to become a dual-purpose solution: providing nutrition for animal and plant production through upcycling waste streams in our food system. About Lars-Henrik Lau Heckmann As a business development leader, Lars-Henrik Lau Heckmann has a strong focus on innovation, strategic partnerships, and portfolio growth. At Better Insect Solutions, he drives initiatives across product development, R&D, marketing, and stakeholder engagement. With a background in biology and insect farming, he combines scientific expertise with commercial insight, shaped by leadership roles in biotech and applied research. His business acumen is supported by executive education from institutions like Harvard Business School. He has helped shape the insect-based feed and food industry over the last 10 years and contributed to regulatory progress through active involvement in international platforms such as IPIFF. Photo: Better Insect Solutions
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