UP bioenergy policy promotes bio-CNG and CBG units to curb pollution

25 Aug 2023 CW Team

The Yogi government in Uttar Pradesh is taking proactive steps to address the environmental impacts of stubble burning through sustainable agricultural practices. With a focus on reducing pollution caused by burning crop residues, the government plans to provide 17 lakh farmers with bio-decomposers, facilitating the conversion of paddy straw into bio-compost. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's comprehensive approach includes penalties, awareness campaigns, and innovative strategies.

The Uttar Pradesh State Bioenergy Policy 2022 outlines incentives for agriculture residue-based bio-CNG and bio-CBG units. These efforts align with the government's push for agricultural sustainability and involve setting up these units in every district. Indian Oil is set to launch a Rs 1.6 billion plant in Gorakhpur, which will use various materials including crop residues, rice husk, and cow dung to produce compost manure. This initiative not only adds value to crop residues but also generates local employment opportunities.

Educational programs for farmers aim to raise awareness about the negative consequences of stubble burning, while research highlights the nutrient-rich potential of crop residues. Composting residues in the field enhances soil health, reduces fertiliser costs, and combats global warming effects. The Gorakhpur Environmental Action Group highlights the loss of valuable nutrients and carbon due to stubble burning.

Dr. BK Singh underscores the economic value of crop residues, emphasising the need to avoid their wasteful burning. Retaining crop residues has multiple benefits, including moderating soil temperature, enhancing water retention, and conserving water resources. The alternative of deep ploughing and composting aids in decomposition and improves soil health, providing a sustainable solution to stubble burning.

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