Sustainable Development Goals
Abstract/Objectives
The IMBA program organized a company visit to Monster Biotechnology, an innovative green technology firm that has developed a sustainable solution to urban food waste challenges. Founded in 2017, Monster Biotechnology has pioneered the use of Black Soldier Fly (BSF) larvae in biologically transforming organic waste into valuable by-products. During the visit, IMBA students had the opportunity to learn about the company's journey from initial prototypes in a university setting to establishing a full-scale industrial operation. The company's breakthrough came with the development of the "BSF BiO System," a bio-cycling module designed in 2018, which is now a cornerstone of their operations in Taoyuan, where their first bio-processing factory was set up in 2020. Students were introduced to the vertical integration of the BSF production chain, critical data in breeding, and the operating procedures that allow for scalable production. The visit emphasized how Monster Biotechnology efficiently processes large-scale urban food waste into high-quality protein sources for aquaculture, poultry, and pet food industries, and how the residue from this process is used as organic fertilizer. This exposure to Monster Biotechnology's operations provided IMBA students with valuable insights into sustainable business practices and innovative waste management solutions, reflecting the practical application of their business studies to real-world environmental challenges.
Results/Contributions （500 words）

The company visit to Monster Biotechnology by the IMBA students yielded profound insights into innovative waste management and sustainable business practices. The students were able to observe firsthand how Monster Biotechnology employs the Black Soldier Fly (BSF) to convert organic waste into valuable products such as high-quality protein for animal feed and organic fertilizer. This visit highlighted the practical implications of sustainable models in business, emphasizing the potential for circular economy practices to significantly reduce waste and create economic value from by-products.

The interaction also allowed students to appreciate the complexities involved in setting up and managing a sustainable business. They learned about the challenges and successes of developing the BSF BiO System, understanding the importance of research and development in achieving commercial and environmental goals. This visit served as an excellent example of how businesses can integrate environmental sustainability into their core operations without compromising on profitability.

Moreover, the event facilitated networking opportunities between the students and industry professionals, fostering potential future collaborations. It also enhanced the students’understanding of the ecological and economic impacts of waste management, preparing them to apply these concepts in their future careers.

This visit not only provided educational enrichment but also inspired the students to consider entrepreneurship and innovation within the sustainability sector as viable career paths. It underscored the importance of innovative approaches in addressing global challenges related to waste management and sustainability.

Keywords
SustainabilityWaste ManagementCircular EconomyInnovationBlack Soldier Fly
References