Alternative Energy - Biomass

We live in a world of finite resources and energy. Hence, finding other alternative sources of energy is an alternative that we must all be seeking. This article would discuss biomass energy and its implications on sustainability.

1. What is biomass?

Biomass, in simple terms, is the energy derived from organic materials. These organic materials range from things like wood, leaves, or even food wastes (i.e. leftovers). The thesis behind the energy in biomass is that all organic sources have received energy from the sun. Hence, these organic sources such as plants are able to convert that energy into chemical potential energy within itself. This is the very same energy that fuels our body when we eat these organic matter!

2. How does it work?

As mentioned, these organic materials have chemical potential energy within them. So the only question to ask is: how do we convert this form of energy into something that is usable? Easy. The mainstream method of extracting energy from these organic substances is through burning. This way, the carbohydrates, or other organic materials, can release the energy they once had from the sun.

3. Where is it being used?

Biomass energy are extremely ideal for agricultural economies. For example, the Philippines, having a high index consumption of rice benefits from using rice straws as the organic material fed into biomass machines to generate energy, producing around 5 million tons per year (Shead, Hall). Through this way, farmers are able to minimize wastes and hence enhance their productivity and profits.  

4. Any issues?

Of course like other sources of energy, biomass also has its shares of negative factors. Because burning organic wastes can lead to methane and other harmful gases when done incorrectly, many criticize the effectivity of biomass. To address this, however, an organization called the Union of Concerned Scientists are publishing papers and guidelines on how to efficiently utilize this energy source in a sustainable manner. (To learn more visit: https://www.ucsusa.org/clean-vehicles/better-biofuels/biomass-energy-resources#.WjM3KpOg9-U)

Biomass is a promising source of technology as it not only addresses the problem of energy but it also provides a viable solution to food waste. I firmly believe that studies and initiatives should be supported in order to advance this energy source and make it more sustainable.

What do you think? Engage with this issue and comment in the section below!

Thank you for reading!

Sources:

https://www.ucsusa.org/clean-vehicles/better-biofuels/biomass-energy-resources#.WjM3KpOg9-U

https://www.eia.gov/todayinenergy/detail.php?id=15451

https://www.aseanbriefing.com/news/2017/05/19/biomass-industry-philippines.html