Turning a Liability into an Asset: Landfill Methane Utilization Potential in India
Introduction
Landfills generate methane and other gases during decomposition, posing concerns about explosions, odors, and contributions to global climate change. However, capturing landfill gas (LFG) can turn this liability into an asset. Many countries capture LFG to improve landfill safety, generate electricity, reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and earn carbon emission reduction credits. The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) allows developing countries to capture and combust methane, providing valuable environmental services and potentially profitable business ventures.
Current Status in India
India does not currently have operational LFG projects, but several projects are in the initial planning and testing stages. This study highlights the need for appropriate landfill management practices and government subsidies to fully leverage the LFG resource. Section 1 outlines the current situation in India regarding energy, waste management practices, and climate change.
Benefits of Capturing Methane from Landfills
LFG contains between 40-60% methane, which can be used as a useful fuel. It can be used to generate electricity through gas turbines, directly in boilers of industries to provide heat or power mechanical processes, and purified and fed into the local natural gas distribution system. Managing LFG has other local benefits, including reducing the risk of contamination of local water supplies via leachate runoff and addressing unpleasant odors and fire/explosion risks.
Waste Collection and Disposal Practices in India
The viability of LFG projects depends significantly on how municipal solid waste (MSW) is collected, sorted, and processed. In rural areas, a majority of solid waste is recycled, with most biodegradable material used as animal feed or fertilizer. However, urban areas face different challenges, such as inadequate waste collection systems and improper disposal methods.
Opportunities and Challenges for LFG Projects in India
Section 2 explores the possibilities and barriers for planning, funding, and running LFG projects, emphasizing potential mechanisms needed to start this new industry in India. These include financial support, regulatory frameworks, and international coordination.
Conclusion and Recommendations
Section 3 concludes with recommendations for future action, focusing on the need for appropriate landfill management practices and government subsidies to fully exploit the LFG resource. The International Energy Agency's Energy Sector Methane Recovery and Use Initiative supports cost-effective reductions in short-term GHG emissions and promotes sound energy policies and practices globally.
Key Data Points
- Methane Composition: LFG contains between 40-60% methane.
- Environmental Benefits: Reduces methane emissions, improves landfill safety, generates electricity, and provides carbon emission reduction credits.
- Current Status: India lacks operational LFG projects, but several projects are in the planning and testing stages.
- Challenges: Inadequate waste collection systems in urban areas and the need for government subsidies and appropriate management practices.
This report aims to demonstrate that LFG is a viable source of electricity for India and presents an opportunity to transform a liability into an asset.
