Waste-to-wealth model: A study on biodegradable incense cones prepared from temple floral byproducts

Abstract

Temple flower waste is an underutilized yet abundant organic resource that poses a significant environmental challenge due to improper disposal methods such as dumping and water contamination. This study, titled “Transforming Temple Waste into Fragrance: Sustainable Production of Eco-Friendly Incense Cones from Floral Residues,” explores an innovative approach to convert temple floral waste into value-added incense cones, promoting circular economy principles and environmental sustainability. The research aims to develop an efficient process for collecting, segregating, drying, and transforming temple flower waste into incense cone material. The study evaluates various formulations by combining dried floral residues with natural binders such as cow dung powder, charcoal dust, gum arabic, and essential oils to enhance burning quality, fragrance retention, and ash production. The physicochemical properties, combustion behavior, and fragrance persistence of the produced incense cones are analyzed and compared with commercially available synthetic products. Furthermore, the research emphasizes environmental and socio-economic benefits. The proposed model reduces organic waste generation, minimizes landfill load, and prevents water pollution caused by flower disposal in rivers and ponds. At the same time, it encourages sustainable livelihood opportunities for local women’s self-help groups and entrepreneurs by establishing small-scale incense cone production units near temples. Preliminary findings indicate that temple floral residues such as marigold, rose, and jasmine exhibit favorable characteristics for incense making due to their natural aromatic compounds and high organic content. The final product demonstrates good burning time, pleasant fragrance, and minimal smoke emission, making it an eco-friendly alternative to chemical-based incense. In conclusion, this research highlights the potential of temple flower waste as a renewable raw material for incense cone production. It integrates environmental management, resource recovery, and social upliftment, thus aligning with the goals of sustainable development and waste valorization. The study provides a replicable model that can be implemented across temple clusters in India to promote zero-waste religious practices and green entrepreneurship.