Biomass: Existing Management and Practices

Plant-, animal-, municipal-, and industrial-based biomasses are the sustainable sources of energy that are available in large quantities. However, their transportation and storage are costly, and improper waste management causes negative effects on the environment. Effective biomass management ensures long-term feasibility of natural resources for sustainable development and reduces the dependence on nonrenewable natural sources. Various physical, thermal, and chemical and biological methods are available for the management of solid and liquid biomass waste. The conversion of biomass can be achieved through pyrolysis, liquefaction, combustion, gasification, anaerobic digestion, fermentation, and transesterification methods. These conversions generate value-added, environment-friendly products such as fertilizers, biogas, and biofuels.