Rural Cold Storage as a Post-Harvest Technology System for Marginalized Agro-Based Communities in Developing Countries

Abstract

The goal of this paper is to provide the framework for the implementation of sustainable Rural Cold Storage (RCS) systems for farm produce in agro-based rural communities in developing countries. RCS, a post–harvest technology system for farm produce, is an appropriate technology for marginalized rural communities in developing countries that helps in prolonging the lifespan and freshness of perishable fresh farm produce (like leafy vegetables) at a minimal investment, especially for rural communities where electricity is lacking. The RCS system initially analyzed on the basis of thermodynamics principles by the research group has been constructed and tested with the involvement of the local farmers in selected rural communities in Nepal; the land of Mt. Everest. The preliminary data obtained is used to modify the design of zero-energy cool chambers and construction of RCS systems for implementation in agro-based rural communities in developing countries. RCS is an innovative sustainable system that enhances direct marketing by indigenous farmers in developing countries and inherently provides jobs for indigenous farmers, especially for women, therefore alleviating poverty in these rural communities. RCS is virtually a zero-energy technology that minimizes global warming and addresses issues. The RCS is built with local materials such as jute, bricks, sand, water, clay, straw, and bamboo,and it is operated at the cost of two buckets of water per day. The RCS can be constructed at a total cost of maximum US$120–$130 for 200–300 kg of farm produce.