Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh has taken a significant step to reduce air pollution caused by stubble burning. The state government is set to establish up to 100 compressed biogas (CBG) plants, aiming to solve the stubble problem issues by converting agricultural waste into eco-friendly biogas to mitigate air pollution in UP as well as in Delhi NCR. Stubble burning was a major cause of pollution in the national capital.
As per the officials, the move is part of a plan to overcome the root cause of stubble burning. “Stubble burning has been a major issue that worsens air quality in UP and Delhi NCR. But with the new CBG plants, they not only decrease pollution but also provide an opportunity to earn more.
CBG plants will convert waste materials like agricultural residue, cattle dung, and municipal waste into biogas through a process called anaerobic decomposition. The biogas is then purified and compressed to create CBG, which is a clean energy source similar to compressed natural gas (CNG). This renewable energy can be used for vehicles, industries, and commercial purposes, reducing the need for traditional fossil fuels.
Officials say that using agricultural waste to produce biogas has many benefits, including cutting down on natural gas and oil imports, lowering pollution, and providing a solution for waste management.
As part of the UP State Bio-Energy Policy 2022, the state has invested Rs 750 crore over five years to support bioenergy projects like these CBG plants. The policy encourages the use of bioenergy, reduces dependence on fossil fuels, and helps farmers by providing subsidies, land, and other benefits.
