Higher Ethanol Blending In Petrol Helps Climate

The central government's ambitious plan to increase ethanol blending in petrol beyond 20 per cent is commendable. This initiative is expected to boost farmers' income, reduce dependence on imported crude oil, and contribute to the nation's carbon reduction goals. At the Advantage Assam 2.0 Business Summit in Guwahati, Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri highlighted the government's commitment to expanding biofuel blending, stating, "We will be looking at more than 20 per cent blending of biofuel. Already a NITI Aayog group has been set up and they are looking into it."

This statement carries weight, as the government has already demonstrated significant progress in ethanol blending. Blending ethanol in petrol began on a pilot basis in 2001. The ethanol blending percentage has surged from 1.53 per cent in 2014 to an impressive 19.6 per cent today. This substantial increase has led to cumulative foreign exchange savings of Rs 113,000 crore and crude oil substitution of 193 lakh metric tonnes. These achievements underscore the tangible benefits of ethanol blending and the government's commitment to reducing India's reliance on fossil fuels.

However, concerns about the environmental impact of ethanol blending persist. Critics argue that sugar mills, a primary source of ethanol, pose environmental challenges, as sugarcane cultivation requires vast amounts of water. Given India's already stressed water resources, this is a valid concern. Nevertheless, these challenges are not insurmountable.

One solution is to implement reforms in sugarcane production to make it more water-efficient. Advanced irrigation techniques, such as drip irrigation and micro-sprinklers, can significantly reduce water consumption while maintaining crop yield. Additionally, research into drought-resistant sugarcane varieties can further mitigate water concerns.

Furthermore, ethanol production does not have to rely solely on sugarcane. Other crops such as maize, sorghum, and broken rice can also be used as ethanol feedstocks. Expanding the sources of ethanol would not only alleviate pressure on water-intensive crops but also provide additional income opportunities for farmers growing alternative feedstocks. The diversification of ethanol sources can make ethanol production more sustainable while ensuring a stable supply for blending.

Another aspect to consider is the development of second-generation (2G) ethanol, which is derived from agricultural residues and waste. Unlike first-generation ethanol (produced from food crops), 2G ethanol uses non-food biomass, reducing competition with food production. The government has already launched initiatives to promote 2G ethanol plants, and scaling up these efforts could provide an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional ethanol sources. For example, the government has launched Pradhan Mantri JI-VAN (Jaiv Indhan-Vatavaran Anukool fasal awashesh Nivaran) Yojana to provide viability gap funding to provide initial thrust to create 2G ethanol capacity in the country and attract investment in this sector.

Additionally, policies supporting responsible land and water management are crucial. The government can introduce incentives for farmers to adopt sustainable practices, invest in water-saving technologies, and encourage the use of diversified crops for ethanol production. Public awareness campaigns can further educate farmers on the benefits of efficient water usage and alternative biofuel sources.

In conclusion, while ethanol blending beyond 20 per cent presents environmental challenges, these can be effectively addressed through innovative solutions and policy interventions. Sustainable agricultural practices, diversification of ethanol feedstocks, and investment in second-generation ethanol can ensure that the benefits of this initiative outweigh its drawbacks. With strategic planning and implementation, India can successfully balance its energy needs, economic growth, and environmental sustainability.