ALTERNATIVE USES FOR COFFEE HUSKS — A SOLID WASTE FROM GREEN COFFEE PRODUCTION

Brazil is the largest coffee producer in the world, with an average production of 2.5 million tons per year. Coffee husks (CH) are the major solid residues from the handling and processing of coffee, since for every kg of coffee beans produced, approximately 1 kg of husks are generated. These solid residues pose several problems in terms of adequate disposal, given the high amounts generated and environmental concerns. In view of the aforementioned, the objective of the present study was to present an overview of the works that have been developed in order to find alternative uses for coffee husks. Applications include direct use as fuel in farms, silage, animal feed, fermentation studies, use as adsorbents, and others.