Assessment of biogas potential from livestock waste at district level in pakistan using geo-informatics

Self-sufficiency in energy is the assurance to excel any country’s economy. Energy is most important source for economic growth of a country. Unfortunately Pakistan has to face a major energy crisis in natural gas, power and oil. With the present situation of increasing energy demand, rising energy prices and reinforcement of countermeasures for global warming, renewable energy sources have taken the spotlight. Among all renewable energy sources, the most suitable option for meeting the energy requirements in developing nations is Biogas technology that has become more widespread in most recent decade. Livestock represents an important component of the agricultural sector in Pakistan which is the major contributor in biogas production process. Manure is a valuable fertilizer that improves the soil, obtained as a byproduct of biogas production process, and dung provides the basis for this process. The study identified the major biogas potential areas of Pakistan by using Geographic Information System. Livestock census data for 2006 was used. Livestock residues of cattle and buffalo out of all stock-raising animals were evaluated. The GIS software i.e. ArcView 3.2 is used as a tool for mapping of biogas potential areas. This information could help all stakeholders in deciding where to expand livestock production without putting the environment at risk.The results of the study showed that Punjab has maximum biogas potential which is followed by Sindh, KPK, Baluchistan and AJ& K.