The Impact of Stubble Burning on Air Quality and Anaerobic Biogas Plants as a Viable Solution – An Opportunity Analysis for Punjab, India

Abstract

Stubble burning and its resultant pollutants have adversely affected the environment and posed serious health hazards. It is very important to understand the situation from the farmer’s perspective and from the perspective of conserving the environment. In the present study, a critical analysis of stubble burning and its effects on the neighbouring city of Delhi has been done with the help of satellite imagery and simultaneously analysing the air quality index. The effect of pollutant dispersion on neighbouring areas has been studied at the time point when stubble burning takes place and over the following time intervals in the adjoining area. Furthermore, this study conducts an economic analysis of biogas plant establishment, biogas and biofertilizer generation from stubble and its sale. Thus, this study provides an opportunity analysis on how the stubble can be put to better use to produce utilizable cooking gas and fertilisers, which can directly benefit farmers, besides being economically and environmentally rewarding. The paper concludes with policy-related suggestions including setting up of corporative societies including the farmers as participants.