Innovation

This innovative solution addresses the pressing environmental issue in Bolivia where blood is discharged into the environment causing contamination. This initiative collects blood from slaughterhouses, preventing environmental pollution and transforming this waste into a valuable resource. This practice reduces the environmental pollution associated with untreated blood runoff, which can contaminate water sources and harm ecosystems. By promoting efficient use of resources and reducing waste, this business directly addresses SDG 12 which is Responsible Consumption and Production. It also plays a role in SDG 15, Life on Land, by mitigating environmental pollution and promoting the responsible management of ecosystems. Scanbiotek makes an effort to reduce food waste and ensure a more sustainable and efficient food production system. The utilization of cattle blood in the production of feed and food contributes indirectly to SDG 2, Zero Hunger, by enhancing food security. Another goal that Scanbiotek honours is SDG 6, Clean Water and Sanitation. Scanbiotek’s initiative not only addresses the immediate environmental concern of water pollution but also supports the broader goals of responsible water management.

Scanbiotek’s innovative approach aligns with multiple SDGs by promoting responsible consumption, environmental sustainability, economic growth, and indirectly supporting food security. This business model serves as a practical example of how private enterprises can actively contribute to the global goals outlined by the United Nations for a more sustainable and equitable future.

Inspiration

The driving force behind this business model was a deep rooted commitment to addressing environmental challenges while creating economic opportunities. In a recent interview with the CEO, Henning Aguilar Valencia, stated that “the company was created with the motivation of eliminating pollution in the watershed”. According to Henning, the origin of Scanbiotek involved a strategic collaboration between the Danish company, Protena international, and a local Bolivian company, Tusequis. Henning elaborated on the partnership, stating, “the know-how was brought by our Danish partner, and together, we sought local alliances. Tusequis emerged as a key player in this collaboration”. The idea of collecting and repurposing cattle blood came through Tusequis. Henning recalled that through discussion, they were able to realize the potential to rescue blood and contribute to human consumption. An example Henning used for this innovation was how they could use leftover blood from animals to make food for people. Using the frozen plasma, which is now used in sausages, “It gives sausages a good source of protein from animals, which is important for recipes that usually use things like vegetables and corn starch”. This initiative was born out of a collective effort to not only combat environmental pollution but also contribute to sustainable practices in the food industry.

Overall impact

In the interview, Henning expressed that Scanbiotek has faced numerous challenges, spanning logistics, personnel, and installation complexities. Operating with distinct challenges related to the economic and political landscape, as well as issues with access toads to ports, the company navigated these obstacles to establish a thriving enterprise. Henning states that the evidence of its success lies in the current utilization of 80% of its productive capacity, indicating that the challenges were not only anticipated but effectively addressed. The creation of job opportunities and the economic contributions made by the company have provided immediate benefits to the local community. Looking at the mid-term, Scambiotek envisions an expansion of activities to meet the growing market demand for its products. This not only indicates the sustainable growth of the business but also suggests a positive reception and adoption of the innovative solution in the market. In the long term, Henning aims to strengthen its presence, not just economically but also by actively engaging in social programs within the country. The interion to contribute to social development aligns with the broader objectives of sustainable business practices and attests to the enduring impact Scanbiotek aims to make in Bolivia.

Business benefit

This innovation benefits the business especially due to the cost savings in wastewater treatment. Scanbiotek contributes significantly to the meat industry's financial efficiency by enabling savings of 8.5 million dollars in wastewater treatment.

Besides, the company collects 12 million litres of blood annually, which would otherwise be discarded and would be a source of contamination. With this blood the company produces dried and concentrated bovine plasma and dried bovine hemoglobin, with which products with high iron content are produced for human and animal consumption. This promotes a circular economy in the meat industry, encouraging more responsible consumption and production.

Social and environmental benefit

Scanbiotek’s innovation of collecting, drying and repurposing cattle blood significantly benefits both society and the environment. In terms of societal impact, the initiative has created a positive ripple effect by addressing environmental challenges while fostering economic development. The company's structure process has led to the creation of job opportunities, contributing to local employment, and economic stability. This not only enhances the livelihoods of individuals but also supports the border community by bolstering social and economic well-being. Environmentally, Scanbiotek’s approach plays a pivotal role in mitigating pollution. By preventing the direct discharge of cattle blood into the environment, the company safeguards local ecosystems and water sources. The transformation of this potential pollutant into valuable resources, such as fertilizers and feed, reduces the reliance on traditional, less sustainable production methods. Additionally, the innovation aligns with the border goals of sustainable resource management and waste reduction, contributing to a more ecologically balanced approach to industrial processes. Scanbiotek’s commitment to responsible consumption and production practices exemplifies how innovative solutions can simultaneously address societal needs, foster economic growth, and contribute to environmental sustainability.

Interviews

Henning Aguilar Valencia, CEO

Henning Aguilar Valencia, CEO