In recent years, the problem of pollution has become a major concern in India. According to a report by the Swiss company IQAir, 30 of the world’s 50 most polluted cities are in India. India certainly needs to improve the quality of the air we are breathing presently.
Indian healthcare expenditure stands at USD 103.7 billion, and air pollution is responsible for almost USD 11.9 billion of the overall expenses.
However, there is hope in the form of the biogas industry, which has the potential to lead the change toward a cleaner and greener India. One-third of deaths from lung cancer, heart disease, and stroke globally are due to air pollution, according to the World Health Organization. India has been grappling with the problem of pollution for decades, with its major cities being the worst affected. However, there has been a growing recognition of the need for cleaner, greener cities that are sustainable in the long run. The biogas industry, in particular, has emerged as a potential game-changer in this regard, offering a range of benefits that can help lead the change in polluted Indian cities.
Green cities are needed of the hour: The need for green cities in India cannot be overstated. With rapid urbanization and industrialization, the country’s cities have become major contributors to pollution, with air and water quality deteriorating to dangerous levels. The negative impact of pollution on public health, the environment, and the economy has been well documented, with estimates suggesting that air pollution alone costs the Indian economy billions of dollars each year.To tackle this problem, India needs to adopt a holistic approach that encompasses everything from reducing emissions to promoting sustainable practices.
Removal of organic waste for productive use: One of the most significant benefits of the biogas industry is its ability to convert organic waste into a useful resource. In India, a significant amount of organic waste up to 32 million tonnes is generated every day from households, restaurants, and other sources. This waste, if left unattended, can contribute to pollution, emit greenhouse gases, and even create health hazards.
The biogas industry offers a solution to this problem by using organic waste to produce biogas, which can be used for cooking, heating, and even electricity generation. This not only reduces the amount of waste going to landfills but also provides a sustainable source of energy that can help reduce the reliance on fossil fuels. The process of biogas production also generates bio-fertilizer, which can be used to enhance soil quality in agriculture.
Landfills: The biogas industry also offers a solution to the problem of landfills, which are a major contributor to pollution in Indian cities. Landfills are not only unsightly but also emit harmful gases such as methane and carbon dioxide, which contribute to climate change.
In a recent letter to the Delhi government, Indian Biogas Association has called for greater adoption of biogas technology to reduce the amount of waste going to landfills. The letter highlights the potential of biogas to not only reduce pollution but also create new opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship.
Bi-product to boost plantations: bio-fertilizer: Another benefit of the biogas industry is the production of bio-fertilizer, a by-product of the biogas production process. Bio-fertilizer is a natural and organic fertilizer that can help boost plant growth and soil health without the harmful chemicals found in conventional fertilizers.
By using bio-fertilizer, farmers can reduce their reliance on chemical fertilizers, which can be expensive and harmful to the environment. This, in turn, can lead to improved crop yields and higher-quality produce, which can benefit both farmers and consumers.
Overall reduction in pollution: Overall, the biogas industry has the potential to significantly reduce pollution in Indian cities, from air pollution to water pollution.
In addition, by producing biogas and bio-fertilizer, the industry can help reduce the reliance on fossil fuels and chemical fertilizers, which can have a significant impact on the environment. This, in turn, can lead to improved public health, a cleaner environment, and a more sustainable future for all.
In conclusion, the biogas industry can help to remove organic waste for productive use, reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills, generate bio-fertilizer to boost crop yields and reduce pollution levels in Indian cities. The government’s recognition of the potential of the biogas industry is a positive step in the right direction, and it is crucial that more efforts are made to promote the use of biogas plants in India. With the right policies and incentives, the biogas industry can play a significant role in promoting sustainable living and reducing the carbon footprint of Indian cities.
About the Author
Gaurav Kedia, Chairman, Indian Biogas Association.
