Hybrid Solar Dryers for Fruits, Vegetables, Herbs and NTFPs in Georgia

PROJECT INFORMATION

Project Implementer: CARE Czech Republic

Donor: UNDP Challenge Fund

Implementation period: 2020-2021

BASELINE STATE

In Georgia, natural sun-drying is one of the most common methods of preserving agricultural products. Cereals, pulses, fruits, vegetables, hazelnuts and spices are dried on the ground under the influence of the sun and wind. As regards the further development of solar energy in Georgia, there is great potential for promoting this type of energy as a sustainable solution, but its wider use is not yet widespread in Georgia. The possible further development of this sector would offer greater availability and affordability for a wider spectrum of the population and would have huge long-term benefits in terms of inexhaustible and clean solar energy, reducing pollution, providing an independent source, which goes hand in hand with sustainability.

PROJECT AIM AND DEVELOPMENT ASPECTS

The aim of the project was to help improve the quality of products for sale and increase the income of the local population, leading to an improved quality of life. The project provided solutions for the rural population by reducing dependence on conventional energy sources, improving their living conditions, increasing agricultural production and providing economic opportunities.

The development impact of the project was to contribute to the economic strengthening of the rural population and to support environmental sustainability in selected five regions of Georgia through the transfer of Czech know-how in the field of renewable energy and intelligent technologies in the field of climate and agriculture. The ability to dry fruits and vegetables is an essential element in achieving the long-term food security of many people and communities, where certain crops may be abundant during the harvest, but may be scarce or out of season due to the need to preserve and cool them, which makes these foods otherwise unavailable.

ROLE OF HOLISTIC SOLUTIONS S.R.O. IN THE PROJECT

The HS team was involved in training and know-how transfer activities.

Also, in cooperation with the Georgian partner organisation Rural Communities Development Agency (RCDA), HS also developed a feasibility study based on expert site visits.