Environmental and Economic Benefits of Wastewater Management in Ethanol Production

What is it about?

This research paper evaluates the environmental impacts and economic benefits of six different wastewater management schemes for molasses-based ethanol production in Thailand. The study primarily focuses on comparing open lagoon and upflow anaerobic sludge blanket (UASB) technologies. Six scenarios, labeled A to F, are analyzed: schemes A and B use open lagoon technology, while C to F employ UASB technology with various configurations of energy sourcing and biogas use. The study aims to determine the most environmentally and economically advantageous scheme by analyzing environmental cost, payback period, and cost savings through the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP). It also considers factors like water reuse, methane emissions, and the environmental impact of each production step, including sugar cultivation, ethanol production, and wastewater treatment.

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Photo by Stuart Frisby on Unsplash

Photo by Stuart Frisby on Unsplash

Why is it important?

Understanding the environmental and economic implications of wastewater management in ethanol production is critical, particularly in countries like Thailand with significant ethanol production from molasses. The research is important for several reasons: it provides comprehensive insights into the environmental and economic trade-offs of different wastewater treatment technologies in ethanol production; it guides decision-making for sustainable and cost-effective practices in the industry; and it contributes to reducing environmental impacts, particularly in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving water resource management. The study's outcomes have the potential to influence policy decisions and industrial practices in Thailand and other countries with similar ethanol production profiles. KEY TAKEAWAY: The most advantageous scheme for molasses-based ethanol production in Thailand involves UASB technology with energy sourced from a sugar mill, offering the lowest environmental impact and significant economic benefits. This research relates to the following Sustainable Development Goals: • SDG 9 - Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure • SDG 7 - Affordable and Clean Energy • SDG 6 - Clean Water and Sanitation • SDG 12 - Responsible Consumption and Production • SDG 13 - Climate Action