Bio-Compressed Natural Gas (Bio-CNG) is emerging as a revolutionary technology with the potential to significantly reduce air pollution. By addressing three critical areas—methane emissions, waste-burning, and fossil-fuel dependency—Bio-CNG offers both economic and environmental advantages. Despite its promise, the industry has been slow to adopt this technology, with various challenges hindering its widespread implementation.
Indore, Madhya Pradesh, provides a compelling case study of Bio-CNG’s potential and the obstacles it faces. Indore is home to Asia’s largest Bio-CNG plant, located in Devguradiya village. This site, once notorious as the dumping ground for the city’s garbage, has been transformed into a symbol of progress. The plant, established in February 2022, is part of the “Gobar Dhan” initiative and produces 17 tonnes per day (TPD) of Bio-CNG from 550 TPD of biodegradable waste.
This facility fuels 146 city buses, with plans to expand to 400 buses, thereby significantly reducing diesel consumption and associated emissions. As a result, Indore’s air quality has improved, though challenges remain. The area still suffers from the legacy of decades of waste accumulation, resulting in persistent odour issues.
The plant’s success is also evident in Indore’s recognition as India’s cleanest city for six consecutive years, with the Bio-CNG plant being a key factor in this achievement. The plant operates under a public-private partnership, with the Indore Municipal Corporation (IMC) and Ever Enviro Resource Management Pvt Ltd. working together to manage waste and produce Bio-CNG.
However, the path to widespread adoption of Bio-CNG is fraught with challenges, including the need for consistent waste segregation, economic viability, and public awareness. As the technology matures, its ability to address air pollution at multiple levels makes it a crucial component of a sustainable future. Yet, for Bio-CNG to fulfill its potential, greater industry commitment and investment are essential.
Source: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/energy/can-bio-cng-click-indore-plant-reducing-air-pollution-but-odour-remains-a-challenge-86256