By Mahanaim Imdad
In this era of industrialization and globalization, the increase in energy demand cannot go hand in hand with exclusive dependence on natural resources. Natural energy resources are running out and great efforts have been made to generate energy through renewable energy technologies. Not only is Pakistan facing this severe power crisis, but also the shortages of petroleum products and water have become serious problems.
The question arises can a country meet its need for enormous energy demand with these scarce resources? The answer is Biomass!
Biomass refers to renewable organic matter derived from plants and animals. Many developed nations are increasingly adopting biomass fuels for transportation and power production, aiming to reduce carbon emissions associated with the use of fossil fuels.
Biomass energy sources include wood and wood processing residues, crops, and their by-products such as corn, soybeans, sugar cane, food processing residues, animal manure, and human sewage for producing biogas.
Biomass energy is categorized as a sustainable source of energy due to its reliance on inexhaustible organic materials for its production.
Biomass energy displaces conventional fuel sources by harnessing natural materials for energy provision, leading to diminished interest in non-renewable resources like coal and gas. The primary objective of embracing renewable energy is to decrease reliance on environmentally detrimental sources that release substantial carbon emissions, significantly contributing to climate change. Biomass energy effectively addresses this concern, as it seamlessly integrates into the natural carbon cycle, distinguishing it from fossil-derived fuels such as oil, natural gas, and coal. Scientists affirm that the sole carbon released into the environment from biomass fuels corresponds to the quantity absorbed by plants during their lifecycle.
Opting for biomass fuel over coal or gas entails a crucial distinction: the carbon emissions from biomass were originally inherent to plants. In contrast, using coal or gas results in the release of carbon that had been stored for extensive periods. Biomass energy sources are abundantly accessible, and prevalent across global landscapes. Organic waste, encompassing decomposed foliage, grass, trees, and animal remains, is in ample supply and can be harnessed for energy generation, simultaneously addressing waste management concerns.
A significant portion of household waste comprises plant matter and biodegradable materials, which could be put to more productive use. Biomass energy generation effectively utilizes this type of waste, preventing its disposal in landfills. In Pakistan, an agrarian nation, abundant biomass resources like livestock and sugarcane offer the potential for producing biogas, a renewable source for power generation.
Pakistan relies heavily on conventional fossil fuels, like oil and gas, consuming more than they actually have. This dependence necessitates a substantial expenditure on importing these energy resources. Embracing biomass utilization enhances national energy security and diminishes reliance on fossil fuels.
Amidst these circumstances, promoting biogas technology (B.T.) emerges as a viable solution. It not only offers a partial substitute for fossil fuels and firewood but also facilitates the recycling of agro-animal residues into bio-fertilizers. Furthermore, its clean and renewable nature contributes to environmental preservation, safeguarding ecosystems and biodiversity.
A crucial aspect involves raising public awareness, particularly among youth and women, regarding the adoption of bio-energy (biogas) and bio-fertilizers. Additionally, there’s a pressing need to foster understanding and knowledge about ecosystem management, biodiversity conservation, and the sustainable utilization of natural resources.
The Government of Pakistan has asked the Pakistan Council of Renewable Energy Technologies (PCRET) to launch a biogas technology mega-project by installing biogas plants across the country, not only to meet the needs of the kitchen but also for agricultural and commercial purposes to cover the country’s gas and electricity shortages.