Framework for Increasing Eco-efficiency in the Tofu Production Process: Circular Economy Approach

Abstract

This research aims to design recommendations for improving the tofu production process in Sugihmanik Village. Over 30 tofu small medium enterprises (SMEs) generate solid and liquid waste, which pollutes the river. An eco-efficiency strategy was implemented and began by identifying the tofu production process. The life cycle assessment (LCA) method and the SimaPro software were used to calculate eco-cost and eco-efficiency levels. Based on the calculations, the eco-cost value per batch is USD 10.76. If 30 batches are produced daily, the eco-cost value in one of the tofu SMEs is USD 9.10. Tofu production has an eco-efficiency index (EEI) value of 0.12. This value shows that tofu products are only affordable but have yet to be sustainable. The researchers then recommend using biogas from wastewater treatment to replace rice husks and corncobs. This study also develops a circular economy framework in the tofu production system. The output is expected to suppress the discharge of water and solid waste to increase the EEI value of the tofu production process in the future.