Second-generation (2G) ethanol refers to bioethanol produced from agricultural waste, such as rice straw. Unlike first-generation ethanol, which is derived from food crops like sugar cane or maize, 2G ethanol helps mitigate the competition between food production and fuel generation.
India is prioritizing 2G ethanol to achieve its fuel-blending targets while minimizing the use of food crops for ethanol. By utilizing agricultural residues, particularly rice stubble, the country aims to tackle serious environmental issues, such as stubble burning, which significantly contributes to air pollution in North India.
The BioE3 policy, introduced by the Indian government, seeks to enhance biotechnology-centric manufacturing in India. This policy includes the establishment of "bio-foundries" that will produce essential feedstock and catalysts, including enzymes, needed for 2G ethanol production. This initiative aims to strengthen India's biotechnology sector and reduce reliance on imports.
Enzymes play a vital role in converting agricultural waste, such as rice stubble, into fermentable sugars, which are essential for ethanol production. Currently, India relies on imported enzymes, increasing the cost of 2G ethanol. The government is focused on advancing domestic enzyme production to lower costs significantly.
The first enzyme-manufacturing facility under this initiative is expected to be located in Manesar, Haryana. This facility will provide enzymes to various 2G ethanol plants, including those in Mathura, Bhatinda, and an existing plant in Panipat.
Establishing domestic enzyme production is anticipated to greatly reduce the cost of 2G ethanol, enhancing its economic viability. This move will also lessen India’s dependence on imported enzymes and bolster the country's biotechnology sector.
The production of 2G ethanol from agricultural waste significantly mitigates air pollution caused by the burning of rice stubble. By converting this waste into bioethanol, the process not only generates cleaner fuel but also provides a sustainable method for managing agricultural residues.
One major challenge is ensuring a reliable supply of agricultural residues, such as rice stubble. Additionally, the development and commercialization of the necessary enzymes at scale is complex, requiring substantial investment and technological advancement.
Increasing 2G ethanol production will assist India in meeting its E20 fuel-blending mandate, which stipulates 20% ethanol in petrol by 2025. This will help reduce reliance on fossil fuels, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and enhance energy security.
Utilizing agricultural residues like rice stubble for 2G ethanol production aligns with sustainable development goals by minimizing waste, reducing environmental pollution, and offering an alternative to fossil fuels without jeopardizing food security.
Q1. What is 2G ethanol made from?
Answer: 2G ethanol is made from agricultural waste, such as rice straw, instead of food crops, thereby reducing competition for food resources.
Q2. How does the BioE3 policy support ethanol production?
Answer: The BioE3 policy promotes biotechnology manufacturing by establishing bio-foundries to produce essential enzymes for 2G ethanol, reducing import dependency.
Q3. What are the environmental impacts of 2G ethanol?
Answer: 2G ethanol production reduces air pollution by utilizing agricultural waste, which would otherwise be burned, turning waste into clean fuel.
Q4. Why is domestic enzyme production important for 2G ethanol?
Answer: Developing domestic enzyme production lowers costs for 2G ethanol and lessens reliance on imports, strengthening India's biotechnology sector.
Q5. What is the significance of the E20 mandate in India?
Answer: The E20 mandate, requiring 20% ethanol in petrol by 2025, aims to reduce fossil fuel reliance and promote sustainable energy solutions in India.
Question 1: What is the main source of 2G ethanol?
A) Food crops
B) Agricultural waste
C) Fossil fuels
D) Synthetic materials
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: What environmental issue does 2G ethanol address?
A) Deforestation
B) Air pollution from stubble burning
C) Water scarcity
D) Soil erosion
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: Where will the first enzyme-manufacturing facility be established?
A) Delhi
B) Manesar
C) Panipat
D) Mathura
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: What is the goal of the BioE3 policy?
A) Increase fossil fuel production
B) Promote biotechnology manufacturing
C) Reduce agricultural output
D) Decrease energy efficiency
Correct Answer: B
Question 5: How does 2G ethanol support sustainable development?
A) By increasing food crop production
B) By utilizing agricultural waste
C) By limiting energy sources
D) By promoting deforestation
Correct Answer: B
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