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Goa Turns Waste Oil Into Fuel Gold
18 May
Summary
- Goa's new policy aims to convert used cooking oil into biodiesel.
- Nine lakh kg of used cooking oil was exported for conversion previously.
- The policy promotes a circular economy and reduces environmental harm.
Goa is pioneering a new policy to establish a unit for converting used cooking oil (UCO) into biodiesel. This initiative aims to significantly decrease the state's dependence on imported fuels.
Over the past four-and-a-half years, Goa generated an estimated nine lakh kg of UCO, which was previously exported to Australia for biodiesel production. The drafted policy emphasizes the need for proper UCO management to prevent environmental harm and promote sustainability.
The policy seeks to create a structured ecosystem for UCO collection and recycling. It highlights UCO as a 'second-generation' feedstock, as it does not compete with food crops. This approach ensures used cooking oil is not reused for food, thereby reducing health risks and conserving natural resources.
Incentives and oversight are proposed to encourage UCO collection and recycling, aligning with circular economy principles. The policy outlines the roles of various authorities, including the Goa Energy Development Authority and the Goa State Pollution Control Board, in its implementation and ensuring scientific disposal of UCO.
