Agricultural Innovation: Converting Plastic and Biomass into Manure and Pesticides for Farmers

Key Highlights

• Agri researchers innovate: Convert plastic & biomass to resources.
• Pyrolysis process: Heat without oxygen transforms materials.
• Benefits: Biochar improves soil, reduces emissions, and boosts income.
• Economic potential: Generates valuable resources and additional income.
• Prospects: Collaboration for sustainable agriculture.

In a groundbreaking effort, agricultural researchers have developed a method to transform plastic and biomass into essential resources like manure and pesticides. Led by the University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK, this inventive approach aims to tackle environmental issues while providing benefits to farmers.

Also Read: C-DAC Pune Revolutionizes Farming with SMARTFARM System Launched on 37th Foundation Day

Pyrolysis Process Unveiled

At the core of this transformation lies a process known as pyrolysis, a sophisticated recycling technique. Pyrolysis involves heating plastic and biomass to high temperatures without oxygen. This process converts the materials into liquid oil, char, and gases, without burning them, making it eco-friendly.

Surprising Discoveries

Researchers observed remarkable outcomes from the pyrolysis unit. Plastic waste, when subjected to pyrolysis, yielded char, a crucial material for industries like asphalt and brick manufacturing. Moreover, the process generated syngas, a clean-burning fuel, and bio-oils with various energy applications.

Also Read: Cultivate More Vegetables with this Innovative Technique, Boosting Yield by 40%

Environmental Advantages

Pyrolysis of biomass produces biochar, often termed "black gold" by agricultural experts. Biochar enhances soil quality, water retention, and nutrient availability, and aids carbon sequestration. Importantly, the carbon in biochar doesn't contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, making it environmentally sustainable.

Economic Opportunities

Dr. SV Suresha, Vice-Chancellor of UAS, emphasized the economic potential of the pyrolysis unit. Besides producing valuable resources, it generates hydrogen gas, enabling farmers to earn extra income through government schemes like BioUrja. This promotes low operating costs and uses locally available biomass.

Future Outlook

UAS aims to collaborate with the government and industries to commercialize research on biochar usage. This initiative intends to encourage farmers to adopt biochar, offering benefits such as improved soil health, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, and additional income streams.

Also Read: Government Offers 60% Subsidy on Reaper Machines for Farmers: Here's How to Benefit

CMV360 Says

The conversion of plastic and biomass into valuable resources through pyrolysis represents a significant leap in sustainable agriculture. By leveraging innovative techniques like pyrolysis, researchers are addressing environmental challenges while creating economic opportunities for farmers. With continued efforts and collaborations, the adoption of biochar promises a greener and more prosperous agricultural future.