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What is the economic value of "energy" in the ecological fermentation bed?
**What is the Economic Value of "Energy" in the Ecological Fermentation Bed?**
**Xia Yun**
**Abstract:**
Since the promotion of ecological fermentation bed technology, it has attracted significant attention from the central government, local governments, and farmers. There have been many discussions, mainly focusing on issues such as the high temperature problem of the fermentation bed during summer, whether the bed can be disinfected, and how to prevent diseases and fermentation. In terms of pig breeding efficiency, this article focuses on the energy aspect during the operation of the fermentation bed. The main purpose is to explain the mechanism of "energy" production, its economic value, and the scientific utilization of the ecological fermentation bed through a combination of theory and practice.
**Keywords:** fermentation bed, energy, summer high temperature, breeding efficiency
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**I. Advantages of the Ecological Fermentation Bed**
The ecological fermentation bed has several recognized advantages: 1) Environmental protection—fermenting pigs reduce environmental pollution by eliminating the need for manure removal and large amounts of flushing water, significantly reducing pollution from pig farming. 2) Labor-saving—since there's no need to remove manure, more pigs can be raised per breeder. 3) Medicine-saving—pigs consume beneficial microorganisms, such as organic acids, bacterial proteins, and antimicrobial peptides, which aid digestion and improve immunity. 4) Water-saving—traditional pig farming requires a lot of water to flush concrete floors, but with a fermentation bed, only drinking water is needed, saving over 80% of water. 5) Feed-saving—undigested feed is excreted as nutrient-rich feces, which is decomposed into crude protein, amino acids, and other nutrients that can be reused as pig feed. 6) Energy-saving—during winter, the fermentation bed generates enough heat to warm the enclosure, reducing or even eliminating the need for heating systems.
As a new pig farming technology, the fermentation bed has gained widespread recognition due to its unique functional benefits. However, during the promotion process, various problems have emerged. This is normal, as any new technology goes through an adjustment period. Instead of dismissing it outright, we should address these issues and find solutions. Farmers using the system may also face challenges, so they should actively contact technical staff to resolve them. For onlookers, it’s important to remain fair and open-minded when evaluating new technologies. Not all manufacturers are bad, and it’s unfair to dismiss the entire system based on isolated cases.
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**II. The "Energy" Characteristics and Production Mechanism of the Ecological Fermentation Bed**
As mentioned, the six major benefits of the fermentation bed include labor, water, and feed savings, as well as energy conservation. The "energy" produced by the fermentation bed is not temporary—it is sustainable, renewable, clean, and pollution-free. It represents an environmentally friendly, ecological, and energy-efficient method.
For example, in winter, the functional microorganisms in the bed break down pig urine into crude protein, bacterial proteins, and trace elements while releasing a significant amount of heat. This heat keeps the room at around 20°C even when the outside temperature drops to -30°C. As long as pigs are present and excreting, the heat generation continues, making it a reliable and continuous energy source.
The heat production mechanism involves three key processes:
1. Litter materials like sawdust, rice husks, and peanut shells contain lignin and cellulose, which are broken down by microorganisms into smaller molecules, releasing energy.
2. Pig excrement is absorbed by the litter, preventing rapid heat loss and allowing it to be buried under the surface, where it is further decomposed by microbes, generating more heat.
3. Microbial activity itself produces metabolic heat, similar to how a group of people makes a room warmer.
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**III. The Economic Value of the "Energy" in the Ecological Fermentation Bed**
The energy generated during the operation of the fermentation bed has significant economic value. It reduces labor costs by eliminating the need to clean manure and wash pens, saves up to 80% of water, and reduces heating costs. In arid regions like Gansu and Shaanxi, this is especially valuable.
In traditional cement-floored barns, pigs must use more energy to maintain body temperature in cold weather, leading to higher feed consumption and lower weight gain. In contrast, pigs raised on a fermentation bed experience a stable temperature (around 20-25°C), reducing their energy expenditure and improving growth rates. Studies show that pigs in fermentation beds can gain 5-15 kg more than those in traditional systems during winter.
Additionally, the absence of heating systems in fermentation beds reduces construction and fuel costs. In northern areas, where temperatures can drop below zero, this system proves highly efficient and cost-effective.
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**IV. Scientific and Rational Use of "Energy" in the Ecological Fermentation Bed**
To maximize the energy value of the fermentation bed, proper management is essential. During winter, measures such as enhancing insulation, optimizing ventilation, and increasing litter thickness help retain heat. Pigs should be turned regularly to ensure even distribution of excrement and prevent overheating or uneven fermentation.
In summer, excessive heat must be managed. Techniques like improved ventilation, using heat-insulating materials, and increasing air circulation help dissipate excess heat. Proper management ensures the system remains effective year-round without causing discomfort to the animals.
The energy produced by the fermentation bed is not only useful for pigs but can also benefit other livestock such as ducks, geese, cows, and sheep. However, it's important to regulate heat output depending on the season and needs. In summer, excess heat must be released to avoid overheating, just as too much water can cause flooding.
By applying these strategies, farmers can fully leverage the energy potential of the fermentation bed, achieving both economic and environmental benefits.