As an ecologically correct source of energy, the extensive use of biogas has gained relevance in the face of a double challenge facing the world: the climate crisis and energy supply. Such a condition makes it unthinkable to admit that a tremendous amount of waste, with the potential to be anaerobically digested and converted into energy, is not used, especially in a scenario where more than 90% of the world's biogas capacity remains unused, according to the World Biogas Association (WBA).

To meet this commercially profitable bio-based economy, a positive point is the current energy infrastructure designed for gaseous fuels, such as natural gas, capable of transporting biomethane. Another is the technology already available, which includes biogas measuring devices for industrial use.

At the forefront of this development are instruments used in biogas plants, for process monitoring, with a view to safety and methane production. It is worth saying that when residues are transformed into biogas, the process simultaneously generates methane, carbon dioxide and moisture. Methane is the focus of extraction efforts because it is a flammable gas that can be used for energy production in place of natural gas.

Not making productive use of methane is a failure and a waste in terms of nature and economic resources. Instead of allowing it to be discharged into the air, it is important to harness its potential as an excellent fuel. With an accurate measurement process to optimize production phases, minimizing operating costs, methane, which is 20 times more powerful than CO2 as a greenhouse gas, gives way to environmentally friendly energy.

The European Union now produces less than 15% of its own gas demand. By 2050, the biomethane industry will need to cover 30% to 40% of total gas demand to reduce its dependence on energy. At the same time, recent WBA research indicates that, annually, human activity generates more than 105 billion tons of organic waste, which emits methane. By recycling these organic wastes, the biogas industry would enable a 10% reduction in global greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, according to WBA estimates.

Part of the solution could also come from the production of biomethane from agricultural, municipal and industrial organic waste. According to the European Biogas Association (EBA), biomethane is already at least 30% cheaper than natural gas.

The transformation of biogas into green fuel has enormous potential to revolutionize the future of the world, promoting sustainable environmental and economic development. The needs for the well-being of the global population are exactly the same and there will always be waste, which can play a major role as a substitute for fossil fuels.

The window of opportunity is given, but to take advantage of it, investments are needed, especially in relation to economic incentives that can guide societies towards a genuine bioeconomy. renewable and sustainable.

Source: RPA news