Impacts of biogas in environmental conservation of Soan Valley district Khushab Pakistan (T-1275) (MFN 4009)

Abstract

The study was conducted to assess the impact of biogas plants in environmental conservation of Soan valley. The main objectives were to find out how much fuel wood and kerosene was substituted by biogas. Potential of slurry as a fertilizer and impact of biogas plants on socioeconomic life of local people. The area selected for the study was Soan Valley district Khushab of the Punjab Province.Which is highly susceptible for deforestation and major source of fuel being used in the area was wood; therefore,the focus of the study was in-depth analysis of biogas and its role inforests and energy conservation.The study was carried out by using qualitative and quantitative methods.Data was collected from 90 households of which (45 biogas households and 45 non-biogas households) through open-ended questionnaires to the villagers.Data were also collected through meetings with the revenue Department of Chakwal and Nowshera, Forest Department, Agricultural Department of Chakwal and SVDP Nowshera. There was anin-depth analysis of both biogas and non-biogas households which include the occupation of the respondents, analysis of total land holdings,and comparison of Annual Major Crop yield. Analysis of fertilizer used by the respondents. Source of fuel wood was private and community forests. Results showed that 1825 kg of fuel wood was saved per household per year, resulting in annual saving of Pak.Rs.4257 per household per year.Forest area protected about 234ha annually due to reduction in fuel wood among biogas households.Greenhouse gas emissionswerereduced to 11935kg/year/household after the installation of biogas plants.Based on the study it is concluded that biogas is an environmental friendly and one of the best source of alternate energy. Installation of biogas plants is recommended in all rural areas of Pakistan.