Environmental Implications of Biomethanation in Conventional Biogas Plants

In India biomethanation in conventional biogas plants have been proposed as one of the appropriate alternative sources of energy which can counter the escalating demand of fossil fuels. The number of installation of biogas plants is increasing rapidly and the trend is expected to continue at least for the foreseeable future. Biogas plants like many other energy generating technologies are not absolutely free from environmental problems. Environmental impacts related to biomethanation may range from localized health effects due to air, water, soil and pathogenic contamination to global warming at the global scale. The probable health and environmental impacts of energy production in conventional biogas plants have not been fully understood or well documented. A comprehensive assessment seems essential to make this energy source more viable and sustainable. The current article discusses the various positive and negative environmental implications associated with biomethanation and also tries to highlight some mitigation options.