Here you will find our project timeline that showcases our skills and experience in various areas. FWC focuses on the application of Black Soldier Fly Larvae (BSFL) to address the issue of food waste. We operate a BSF rearing facility where we convert food waste into valuable products such as insect protein and organic fertilizer. Our activities include research, education, and outreach, all aimed at promoting sustainable waste management practices. Here’s a quick look at what we’ve done.
Research Projects
Genetic Modification of the Vasa Homologue in Black Soldier Flies Using CRISPR/Cas9
In collaboration with Research Fellow Astrid Hoermann and Professor Tan Meng How (DaRE Lab)
FWC members were tasked to perform cloning protocols, conduct gene transformation in black soldier flies, and utilize BLAST software to design primers specific to the Vasa gene. Additionally, the project requires the optimization of rearing conditions for black soldier flies to ensure the success of genetic modifications.
This research is still ongoing.
Project FWC Expansion
Scaling Up Our Farm
Project FWC is dedicated to significant growth and collaboration in the upcoming year. We look forward to grow our size by 800%+ to about 25 kg of larvae that can valorise up to 8x of their body mass. Below are some of the pictures taken at the farm.
Integrating Urban Agriculture to “Close the Loop”
Expanding BSFL Feeding Operations
Project FWC is expanding its black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) initiative by diversifying the types of food waste used for feeding. To support this, collection boxes will be set up across the CCEB campus, allowing students and staff to contribute unwanted food items, which will serve as nourishment for the BSFL population. Additionally, a new initiative will utilize BSFL frass (larval waste) as a natural fertilizer for growing crops, with plans to distribute the harvested produce to the campus community.
Partnerships with Zymurgy Guild
We have also collaborated other interest groups, namely Zymurgy Guild to valorise their Beer Spent Grains. In the future, we hope to collaborate more with them through the Gardening Workshop and Project.
