In a remarkable sustainability move, S. Manikandan, a resident of Coimbatore, has taken the initiative to reduce food waste and utilize it as a renewable energy source. In April 2023, he installed a Green Connect Biogas Plant called GASTODAY in his home, marking a significant step towards eco-friendly living.
Manikandan’s journey into biogas began when he stumbled upon the Green Connect YouTube channel, where he learned about the concept of using food waste to produce biogas for cooking. Green Connect introduced him to GASTODAY, a domestic biogas plant designed to convert leftover food, vegetables, and organic waste into usable biogas. Manikandan was impressed with the concept and eagerly agreed to proceed with the installation.
Upon completing the installation process, the initial step in launching GASTODAY is to put 100 kg of fresh cow dung into a bucket, ensuring a 1:2 ratio with water. This mixture forms the foundation for biogas production. Once the gas begins to form, we can proceed to add food waste into the system. Initially, there were challenges as the biogas production did not meet expectations due to the use of non-fresh cow dung. However, after switching to fresh cow dung, the biogas production improved significantly. Today, Manikandan’s household relies on 45 to 1 hour of biogas daily for cooking, effectively reducing their dependence on conventional cooking fuels.
This sustainable choice not only benefits Manikandan’s household but also contributes to waste management in the community. It’s a commendable example of how individuals can play a crucial role in promoting eco-conscious practices while embracing innovative solutions like the GASTODAY biogas plant from Green Connect. Manikandan’s story serves as an inspiration for others to explore sustainable alternatives and make a positive impact on the environment.