ANNOUNCEMENTS
The coal briquette industry in Bihar poses a significant challenge as well as opportunities when it comes to climate change mitigation and achieving net zero emissions. Conducting a greenhouse gas inventory of this sector will help us identifying areas from where the major GHG emissions occur and implement strategies to reduce those emissions. A complete analysis of the Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions were conducted in this study with an extensive review of secondary literature to understand the scenario of coal briquettes.
This study also suggests ways for low carbon development pathways and alternatives to coal briquettes, changes in the policy frameworks and technological and financial incentives are also explored upon. With the current issues occurring due to climate change, it is imperative to make a switch from the use of non-renewable resources to renewable source of energy. Phasing out of coal is crucial while doing so and by assessing the GHG emissions, this research study focuses on ways to reduce emissions from the coal briquette units and create sustainable strategies to make this industry more energy efficient and align it with the SDG goals. The meetings conducted with Bihar State Pollution Control Board (BSPCB) recognize Bihar government’s efforts to attain net zero targets for the state and decarbonize the industrial sector.
The results indicate that switching to a low-carbon pathway is not only feasible but also profitable in the long run, providing advantages like cost savings, energy security, and enhanced public health. This study offers policymakers and industry stakeholders a road map for guiding Bihar's coal briquette sector toward a sustainable, net-zero future that complies with international climate goals and fosters socioeconomic growth in the area.
Keywords: coal briquettes, greenhouse gas emissions, net zero targets, low carbon pathways, coal phase-out.
