Cuban farmers are ahead of the curve with techniques to use renewable energies for environmental protection. The operation of 200 windmills and 20 solar panels in the sector of Villa Clara is one example of hardware infrastructure used. Additionally, 130 biodigesters are currently used for the treatment of pork residuals and 300 more will be installed before the end of the year. Biodigesters prevent contamination of groundwater with oil.
Magdalena Gonzalez, an official of the National Association of Small Farmers (ANAP by its Spanish acronym) in the province, reported that the organization maintains a program of efficient use of renewable energy sources included into Cuba’s agro-ecology draft, in force since the 1990s.
Facilities have multiple benefits, including the biofertilizer obtained as a byproduct of waste treatment, very effective in nourishing the soil, she said. Abel Hernandez, president of the cooperative Niceto Perez, in Placetas, one of the largest producers of pork in Cuba, told ACN that biodigesters are crucial for cleaner production, especially since some cooperatives raise about 900 animals per year. Olivia Gonzalez, president of the cooperative Horacio Rodriguez, specializing in pig farming, told ACN that the increased use of renewable energy sources is synonymous with development and quality of life of the peasantry, and economically benefits the family.
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