Academia De Pulilan, Inc

In affiliation with The City School

Cut-cot, Pulilan, Bulacan
2023 - 2024

ASSESSING THE COCONUT CHARCOAL PRODUCTION AND USE ON

THE TRANSITION TO A GREEN ECONOMY OF BARANGAY CUT-COT
PULILAN, BULACAN

Trash to Treasure: The Usage of Coconut Waste Charcoal Briquettes on the

Transition to a Green Economy of Barangay Cut-Cot Pulilan, Bulacan

In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the subject in Practical Research 2

In Senior High School Department of Academia De Pulilan

Presented by:

12-STEM D

GROUP 2

Eusebio, Jillian Mairie R.

Joson, Gems Nelsen S.

Macaspac, Precious Ann M.

Malabon, Andrea Cassandra P.

Quinto, Jovy Grace S.

Raymundo, John Reyster I.

Siao, Aleiya D.

Presented to:

Mrs. Nancy Flores

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 OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

General objective:

The study's main objective is to evaluate the feasibility of using coconut waste charcoal briquettes

as a transition to a green economy of Barangay Cut-Cot Pulilan, Bulacan.

Specific Objectives:

I. To analyze if the resources used to produce coconut charcoal briquettes are sustainable and

to offer alternatives that are in line with green economy principles.

II. To examine if the coconut waste charcoal briquettes can provide a more eco-friendly

alternative to traditional charcoal.

III. To develop awareness programs and educational initiatives to prepare communities with

knowledge of environmentally friendly alternatives and sustainable coconut charcoal

production methods.

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 CHAPTER I

THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND

This chapter presents the Introduction, Background of the study, Statement of the problem,

Scope and Delimitation, and Significance of the study.

INTRODUCTION

Over the years, modern day civilization is now facing some serious environmental threats

due to the effect of worldwide globalization and modernization. Because of its importance for

modernization, the demands for fossil fuels continue to rise that mountains and even natural

preserve our now being mined illegally for its abundancy in coals. It can also cause major pollution

to rivers and streams because of harsh chemicals used that later on can affect the ecosystem of the

area . Despite all this, more greener combustible materials are ready and available but many large

corporations still insist of using the traditional coals as they think that these alternatives are not

commercially profitable to the market. Coconut charcoal can be one of the greater choices for

alternative combustible fuel. The use of coconut milk to Filipino dishes like Caldereta and

Ginataan results to the abundancy of coconuts in our region. The byproducts of coconuts like husk

and shell can now be turned to fuel that can also work closely similar to the traditional coal and

charcoal.

At this point, you may be wondering what is so good about this coconut fuel product that

it is encouraged by some to be used. Coconut charcoals are studied to have: [1] Reduced waste

contribution on our landfill masses, [2] a slow burning effect due to its density that makes it last

even longer than usual charcoal, [3] having little to no smoke due to the ash content of the charcoals

itself, [4] the production of charcoal itself only requires a small amount of energy making it

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consume lesser fuels, and [5] coconut charcoals can also show it's prowess in the fields of medicine

as it shown great health benefits to our skin and inner body.

Coconut charcoal is a true hidden gem that shows us its versatility. From its remarkable

benefits as combustible fuel to its use in the medical field of study. Coconut charcoal contains a

vast amount of potential to revolutionize our society by making it a more greener and renewable

world for all of us to enjoy.

STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

This study aims to evaluate the enhanced coconut charcoal and use on the transition to a green

economy of Barangay Cut-Cot Pulilan, Bulacan.

Specifically, the researchers seek to answer the following questions:

1. Can coconut waste charcoal briquettes serve as a viable alternative to traditional charcoal

sources?

2. Is it safe to use coconut waste charcoal briquettes, especially when used for cooking food

and for other potential uses?

3. Is there enough supplies of charcoal shells in our environment specifically to the

community of Barangay Cut-Cot Pulilan Bulacan to produce coconut charcoal?

4. What are the potential environmental and economic benefits of using these coconut

charcoal as a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional charcoal?

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SCOPE AND DELIMITATION

The following aspects will be studied:

1. The study will assess how the production and utilization of coconut charcoal impact the

ongoing transition to a green economy. It will explore how this transition aligns with goals

related to environmental sustainability, and economic development. Emphasis will be

placed on identifying whether the coconut charcoal industry contributes positively or

negatively to the green economy.

2. The research will thoroughly investigate the methods and processes involved in coconut

charcoal production in the selected areas. This will encompass an analysis of production

techniques, and production scale.

3. Interviews, surveys, and direct engagement will be conducted with local stakeholders,

including coconut charcoal producers, consumers, and local communities. Their insights

will provide a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics involved in the coconut

charcoal supply chain.

Additionally, the study will have the following delimitations:

1. The study will not extensively examine alternative energy sources such as solar, wind, or

other types of biomass fuels. It will primarily focus on coconut charcoal and its role in local

coconut production.

2. The research will be confined to Barangay Cut-Cot Pulilan, Bulacan and will not cover the

entire municipality or neighboring regions to limit the scope and resources needed

3. The study will concentrate on a specific time frame for data collection and analysis. It may

not include longer-term trends and shifts in the coconut charcoal industry that might occur

in the future.

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 4. The research may not extensively explore the broader economic aspects of Pulilan's

transition to a green economy. Instead, it will narrow its focus to the economic impact of

the coconut charcoal industry and its usefulness as an alternative to traditional charcoal.

SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

The results of this study could be highly significant and beneficial, especially for the following:

Future Researchers. This study can serve as a foundational piece of research, providing

valuable insights, data, and methodologies that future researchers can build upon. It can guide the

formulation of research questions and hypotheses for more specific and focused investigations.

Policy Makers: The study can inform policymakers about the environmental, economic,

and social consequences of charcoal production and consumption. It can guide the development of

regulations and policies to promote sustainable charcoal practices and align with green economy

goals.

Environmental Organizations: Environmental groups can use the study's findings to

advocate for conservation efforts, raise awareness about deforestation risks associated with

charcoal, and support policies that reduce environmental harm practices and align with green

economy goals.

Local Communities: The study can shed light on the impact of charcoal production on

local communities, including potential health hazards and economic opportunities. This

information can empower communities to engage in sustainable practices or negotiate better terms

with producers.

Sellers and Vendors: The study can provide sellers and vendors with insights into

changing consumer preferences and regulatory trends related to sustainable and green products.

This knowledge can help them adapt their business strategies to meet evolving market demands.

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 Charcoal Producers: Charcoal producers can benefit from insights into sustainable

production methods, which can enhance their long-term viability and competitiveness in a green

economy.

Consumers and End-Users: Consumers can make informed choices about their energy

sources and cooking methods, potentially reducing their environmental footprint and improving

indoor air quality.

Environmental Conservation: The study's findings can inform strategies to reduce

deforestation and habitat destruction associated with traditional charcoal production, contributing

to the preservation of biodiversity and ecosystems.

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 CHAPTER II

THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

Foreign Studies

Local Studies

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 CONCEPTUAL/ THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK

This study draws its theoretical foundation from the work of

Gabriel Dominic Baygan, Michael Loretero, and Michael
Theory of Coconut Manihilig (2019). As their research noted, wood charcoal has
Charcoal Properties and served as an energy source for centuries which led to
Application contributing to deforestation in the country. As noted, they
examined the possibility of building a theory of using coconut
shells since Philippines is rich in coconut resources. Coconut
charcoal, a byproduct of coconut shells, is a notable resource
derived from this abundance.
Trash to Treasure: The
Usage of Coconut
According to the theory of Ibrahim Yerima & Mohammed
Waste Charcoal Zanna Grema, (2018), coconut shell possesses essential
characteristics that make it an ideal fuel, including a high
Briquettes as a calorific value, low moisture content, minimal ash, low carbon
Transition to a Green dioxide emissions, absence of unpleasant odors, and a slower
combustion rate.
Economy of Barangay
Cut-Cot Pulilan,
This study is anchored by the theoretical support of Olufemi
Bulacan
Sotannde (2018), as he noted that the use of Agro-residues like
Coconut Shell (CNS) and Bambara Nut Shell (BNS) in
briquette production will help in reducing the Agro-waste
disposal problem, and also provide a cheap and cleaner fuel
alternative to fuel wood and fossil fuel in domestic energy
Environmental and
needs.
Sustainability Theory

The theory of Rabi Ahmad, et al. Shaharin Sulaiman (2022) is based on the idea that
coconut fruit has been employed in the last 20 years to create charcoal, a high-energy fuel,
offering a benefit compared to using raw biomass ultimately decreasing the release of
greenhouse gasses into the atmosphere. Coconut charcoal production promotes the idea of
closing resource loops by reusing and repurposing waste materials to create value and
reduce environmental impacts.

Figure 1. Paradigm of the study

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 The research conducted by Gabriel B., et al., Michael L. in 2019, has explored various

practical uses of charcoal, ranging from household cooking to industrial metal smelting.

Furthermore, the study emphasizes the significance of charcoal as a preferred adsorbent for air and

water purification. It proposes that the efficient and environmentally friendly production of

coconut charcoal holds promise as a clean energy source. This theory is uphold by another study,

as referenced by Rabi A., et al., and Shahanin S. in 2020, which underscores the exceptional

properties of coconut shells, such as their high carbon content and eco-friendly characteristics,

making them a viable source of alternative energy and solid fuel compared to other biomass and

raw materials

Traditionally, wood remains the dominant source for charcoal production, largely due to

its easy accessibility and the absence of strict policy regulations. This reliance on wood as an

energy source has been linked to increasing deforestation rates in various regions, as pointed out

by Gabriel B., et al., Michael L. (2019). . In contrast, the Philippines has rich coconut resources

utilized in various industries, including edible oil production and lumber. Coconut charcoal, a

valuable by-product of coconuts, serves as a promising and eco-friendly alternative to traditional

wood-based charcoal.

To support the potential of using coconut waste charcoal briquettes as a transition to a green

economy, the theory of Ibrahim Yerima & Mohammed Zanna Grema, (2018) was used. They

explained that coconut shell biomass is a suitable material for charcoal production and those

properties collectively contribute to the coconut shell's suitability as a favorable and efficient fuel

option. The search results provide various studies that highlight the potential of coconut shell

biomass and offers a promising and eco-friendly alternative to conventional wood-based charcoal.

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 Another study is anchored by the theoretical support of Olufemi Sotannde (2018) as he

explained that the utilization of agricultural residues such as Coconut Shell (CNS) and Bambara

Nut Shell (BNS) in the production of briquettes can play a significant role in addressing the issue

of agro-waste disposal. Additionally, this process can offer a cost-effective and environmentally

cleaner fuel alternative to both traditional fuelwood and fossil fuels for domestic energy

requirements. This approach aligns with the goal of reducing waste and promoting sustainable

energy practices within communities.

As reported in the Ain Shams Engineering Journal (2022), it reveals that coconut

shells possess diverse shapes and an abundance of macropores, along with high surface area and

porosity. These inherent qualities make coconut shells well-suited for various applications,

including charcoal production, activated carbon, insect repellents, fillers, incense sticks, and more.

One of the fundamental underpinnings of this study is rooted in the theory of environmental

sustainability. This theory posits that the production of coconut charcoal aligns with the concept

of closing resource loops, wherein waste materials are reused and repurposed to create value while

simultaneously reducing environmental impacts. As underscored by Rabi A., et al., Shahanin S.

(2020), coconut serves as a versatile and valuable resource employed in various products. The

economic significance of the coconut fruit has spurred increased demand, fueling the growth of

industries involved in processing coconut water, oil, and milk. This, in turn, results in the global

disposal of coconut shells as waste in tropical countries.

The sheer abundance of coconut biomass presents an opportunity for effectively utilizing

residual materials as an energy source. Consequently, coconut shell biomass is readily accessible

for energy generation.

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HYPOTHESIS OF THE STUDY

1. Coconut waste charcoal briquettes may offer a more sustainable and viable alternative

option compared to hardwood or traditional charcoal, as they come from coconuts, which

are a renewable resource.

2. The use of coconut waste charcoal briquettes for cooking food and other potential

applications does not pose significant health risks to consumers.

3. The environmental supply of coconut shells in Barangay Cut-Cot, Pulilan Bulacan, is

sufficient to support the production of coconut charcoal, given the consistent availability

of coconut shells as waste biomass within the local community.

4. Using coconut charcoal instead of traditional charcoal is expected to bring about substantial

environmental advantages. These include a decrease in the release of carbon emissions, a

reduction in deforestation, efficient handling of waste, and an improvement in the

livelihoods of the local community.

DEFINITION OF TERMS

CHAPTER III

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

RESEARCH DESIGN

RESPONDENTS OF THE STUDY

INSTRUMENT OF THE STUDY

VALIDITY AND RELIABILITY

STATISTICAL TREATMENT

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BIBLIOGRAPHY

Academia.edu. (2018). Influence of Production Variables on Eco-Friendly Briquettes from

Coconut and Bambara Nut Shells.

Ahmad, R. B. (2022). Exploring the potential of coconut shell biomass for charcoal production.

Ain Shams Engineering Journal, 13(1).

Baygan, G. D., Loretero, M., & Manilhig, M. (2019). Coconut Shell Pyrolysis for Optimum

Charcoal Production. Proceedings of International Conference on Technological Challenges

for Better World 2019. Department of Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering, University

of San Carlos, Talamban, Cebu City, 6000 Cebu, Philippines.

Coirmedia. (n.d.). Coconut shell charcoal- 7 Surprising Uses You Need to Know. Coir Media.

Retrieved from

Yerima, I., & Grema, M. Z. (2018). Exploring the potential of coconut shell biomass for charcoal

production. Energy Reports, 4, 1-7

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Survey questions

1. Are you aware of the environmental benefits associated with coconut charcoal, such as

reduced deforestation and lower carbon emissions, and do these factors influence your

choice to use it?

O. Yes

O. No

2. In your experience, what are the primary advantages and disadvantages of using coconut

charcoal, particularly in terms of heat intensity, burn time, and overall performance for

cooking or other applications?

(ANSWER FROM THE RESPONDENTS)

3. On a scale of 1 to 5, how satisfied are you with the performance and efficiency of

coconut waste charcoal briquettes?

O. 1

O. 2

O. 3

O. 4

O. 5

4. Do you think coconut waste charcoal briquettes can be used as a viable alternative to

traditional charcoal sources?

O. Yes

O. No

5. Have you noticed any differences in the flavor or aroma of food cooked with coconut

charcoal compared to other charcoals?

(ANSWER FROM THE RESPONDENTS)

6. Do you think coconut waste charcoal briquettes can be used to create an eco-friendly and

a cleaner community?

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O. Yes

O. No

7. Do you agree that using charcoal briquettes made from coconut waste will be beneficial

for the environment like reducing deforestation and promoting sustainability in the

charcoal industry?

O. Agree

O. Disagree

8. How do you think that utilizing charcoal briquettes, produced from coconut waste, could

be advantageous for both the environment and human well-being?

O. It benefits both the environment and individuals

O. Only the environment will benefit from the reduction of coconut waste

O. By means of usage, only the humans can benefit

9. How long did the coconut charcoal last when you used it?

O. Long-lasting

O. Not long-lasting

O. Charcoal quickly runs out

10. Did the coconut charcoal briquettes produce a lot of smoke when you used them?"

O. Yes, it produced a lot of smoke

O. No, it did not produce a lot of smoke

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IMPORTANT DETAILS:

Dependent variable: The impact of using coconut waste charcoal briquettes on the green economy

of Barangay Cut-Cot Pulilan, Bulacan. This include factors such as reduced waste, improved

environmental sustainability, economic growth, or any other relevant indicators.

Independent variable: The usage of coconut waste charcoal briquettes. Its effects on reducing

waste, generating income, or other potential benefits related to sustainability and the local

economy.

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