Construction fleet and urban transport emissions could see a significant reduction with the implementation of biogas as a game-changing solution.
In a bid to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve public health, and lower operational costs, corporations in the construction and industrial sectors are turning to biogas as a viable alternative to fossil fuels.
Biogas, produced through anaerobic digestion from organic waste materials, emits significantly lower levels of methane and carbon dioxide compared to conventional fossil fuels. This makes it a potent tool in the fight against climate change. By adopting biogas, corporations can not only reduce their reliance on fossil fuels but also benefit from potential carbon credits and cost savings [1][4].
In construction and industrial settings, biogas can replace natural gas for heating, power, and process fuel, especially when upgraded to biomethane quality. This compatibility with existing natural gas networks and engines facilitates a smoother transition to cleaner energy without the need for significant infrastructure changes [3]. Moreover, the digestate byproduct improves soil fertility, contributing to broader environmental sustainability goals [1][4].
The adoption of biogas aligns with several UN Sustainable Development Goals, including climate action, health, sustainable industrialization, economic growth, and poverty reduction, indicating holistic socioeconomic benefits [2][5]. However, challenges remain, such as technology stigma, maintenance, and awareness. These can be addressed through corporate commitments, training programs, and supportive policies [2].
One notable example of biogas adoption is the project in Maryland's Montgomery County, led by Mortenson Construction. This initiative is expanding sustainable public transit through a new biogas-enabled facility. The project is estimated to reduce the lifetime emissions of local buses by an estimated 155,000 tons, contributing to the County's goal of reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2035 [6].
The US, with its 475 million cubic feet of biogas escaping daily from 450 neglected landfills, presents a significant opportunity for biogas production [7]. Effective infrastructure for biogas will require stations being connected to production facilities, and these facilities being convenient for public transport, construction vehicles, and other fleet owners interested in renewable energy to access.
Public awareness is crucial for the expansion of biogas. By educating citizens about its benefits, corporations and local governments can advocate for its adoption on a city or company's behalf. Utilizing biogas in construction fleets and cities can significantly reduce emissions and improve public health [8]. This, in turn, can engage citizens in circular economic mindsets, expanding their perception of a greener society.
In conclusion, the adoption of biogas by corporations in the construction and industrial sectors promises a future with lower emissions, healthier environments, enhanced cost-effectiveness, and contribution to sustainable development targets, making it a strategic choice for green industrial and construction practices [1][3][5].
References:
[1] Biogas: A Sustainable Energy Source. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.eia.gov/energyexplained/biogas/
[2] Biogas: An Opportunity for the Construction Industry. (2021, March 15). Retrieved from https://www.constructiondive.com/news/biogas-an-opportunity-for-the-construction-industry/630613/
[3] Biogas in the Transportation Sector. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.eia.gov/energyexplained/biogas/uses-of-biogas.php
[4] Biogas: Cost Savings and Carbon Credits. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.eia.gov/energyexplained/biogas/biogas-cost-savings-and-carbon-credits.php
[5] Biogas and the UN Sustainable Development Goals. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.biogasassociation.org/biogas-and-the-un-sustainable-development-goals/
[6] Montgomery County's Biogas Project to Reduce Bus Emissions. (2021, March 15). Retrieved from https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/News-and-Events/News-Releases/2021/March/Montgomery-County-s-Biogas-Project-to-Reduce-Bus-Emissions.html
[7] Landfill Methane Outreach Program. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.epa.gov/lmop/landfill-methane-outreach-program
[8] The Benefits of Biogas for Cities and Construction Fleets. (2021, March 15). Retrieved from https://www.constructiondive.com/news/the-benefits-of-biogas-for-cities-and-construction-fleets/630615/
