Pragya Yadav
A K Sarma
- Research Scholar Department of Biotechnology, I. K. Gujral Punjab Technical University, Jalandhar, Punjab India
- Scientist E Department of Biotechnology, I. K. Gujral Punjab Technical University, Jalandhar, Punjab India
Abstract
The Government of India is promoting bio-energy. Being a developing country, the focus is mainly on agro-residues. Lately, the policy makers have realized that the formulation of pro-bioenergy policies and industrial development strategies is dependent on precise resource assessment of entire spectrum of waste biomass present in the area, including agro-residues. Accordingly, the need for holistic biomass resource assessment has become indispensible to accelerate the growth of bio-power sector in India. Punjab being a leader in agricultural and horticultural production has huge potential of biomass resource availability in the form of crop residues, horticulture waste, vegetable waste, wasteland biomass, animal waste and municipal solid waste (MSW). Paradoxically, Punjab ranks high amongst Indian states practising open burning of biomass. In light of the above, this article attempts to identify major ligno-cellulosic waste biomass types present in Punjab that could act as excellent fodder for bio-power production. Besides, the authors try to draw attention towards rampant open burning of biomass actively practised here and how this bane can be turned to boon through promotion of bio-energy. Due to concerted efforts of Central and State Government the situation seems improving and such results are further motivation for carrying out the re-assessment of the potential biomass resources available in Punjab to not only to catalyse better utilization of biomass resources but also to overcome the challenges posed by mismanagement of such resources. Efforts towards promoting bio-energy in Punjab are gaining momentum, recognizing the vast potential of various biomass resources. However, the prevalence of open burning remains a significant challenge. Through collaborative initiatives between the Central and State Governments, there’s optimism for transforming this detrimental practice into a sustainable bio-power solution, emphasizing the urgent need for thorough biomass resource assessment to drive effective utilization and mitigate resource mismanagement.
Keywords: Waste management, Biomass, Ecosystem, Nutrient, Climate, Environment
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Research & Reviews : Journal of Ecology
| Volume | |
| Received | February 16, 2024 |
| Accepted | March 23, 2024 |
| Published | May 7, 2024 |