Potential for the production of biofuels from agricultural waste, livestock, and slaughterhouse waste in Golestan province, Iran

Abstract

The causes of global warming and the opposite solutions are among the issues discussed in scientific societies around the world. Also, one of the best options to take advantage of the huge potential of biomass is to use energy from biomass sources such as biogas. Biogas can be produced from anaerobic fermentation of organic waste, agricultural waste, and animal waste. The aim of this study was to investigate the production capacity of biofuels in Golestan province from agricultural crop residues as well as animal wastes including animal and poultry manures and slaughterhouse wastes. The results of research in Golestan province showed that 339.63 million m3 can be produced annually from agricultural crop residues, 103.13–353.16 million m3 from animal manure and poultry manure, and 362.61 million m3 of slaughterhouse waste, respectively. Finally, a total of 2085.35 million kWh of electricity can be generated per year. The results of this study could be the beginning of further research and help to take a proper approach to government policies in the field of renewable energy.