A cost analysis of coconut waste management through the formulation of saponin using the waste for chitosan chemical extraction for Nyior Gegor

Abstract

Coconut waste, often overlooked as an environmental burden, holds significant potential for sustainable and economically viable applications. This study investigates the feasibility of transforming coconut waste into value-added saponin via chemical extraction for chitosan-related applications, with reference to Nyior Gegor. The research evaluates the economic viability of this approach by comparing conventional coconut waste management costs against the potential value generated through saponin production. The study considers the quantity, purity, and estimated market value of the extracted saponin to assess its potential contribution to waste valorisation and circular economy practices. From the experimental extraction, 5 g of saponin was obtained from coconut waste, with an estimated market value of RM 10.04 per gram—representing a total potential value of RM 50.20. The findings suggest that converting coconut husk into saponin offers greater economic potential than landfill disposal, creating opportunities for vendors and entrepreneurs to generate revenue from an otherwise discarded resource. However, the study has limitations, particularly its small-scale yield and reliance on estimated market values that may not reflect actual commercial returns. Additionally, the analysis does not fully account for large-scale production costs, raw material variability, processing requirements, market fluctuations, or long-term environmental impacts. Therefore, further research involving scaled-up extraction, a comprehensive life-cycle assessment, and validation of actual market demand is recommended. Overall, this study demonstrates the potential of coconut waste valorisation while highlighting the importance of ethical decision-making, research integrity, and transparent economic assessments in developing sustainable waste management solutions.