Jalandhar, April 22
Various experts at a seminar organised by DAV University delved into the pivotal role of biofuel production and commercialization in paving the way for a greener and cleaner Earth. Jointly organized by the Go Green Club and the Faculty of Life Sciences to commemorate World Earth Day, the event saw various stakeholders converge to discuss pressing sustainability issues.
Dr. Sarbjit Singh Sooch addressing the audience.
Participants at the seminar, “Biofuel Production and Commercialization: Sustainable Approach towards Green and Clean Earth”, underscored the indispensable role of energy in driving development while lamenting the depletion of traditional fossil fuel reserves and its detrimental impact on the environment. They called for a paradigm shift towards non-conventional fuel sources and emphasized the urgent need for a mass movement to achieve the goals.
Dr. Vandit Vijay speaking at the seminar.
Dr. Manoj Kumar, Vice Chancellor of DAV University, inaugurated the event and stressed the imperative for sustainable energy solutions in the modern era.
Dr. Vandit Vijay, a scientist from Sardar Swaran Singh National Institute of Bio-Energy (SSS-NIBE), Kapurthala, invoked Mahatma Gandhi's vision of "Garam Swaraj" in a contemporary context should be called "Gram Urja Swaraj." He elucidated the potential of bioenergy, including the production of biogas from tree seeds and the utilization of biodiesel in modified gas engines.
Participants at the seminar.
Another luminary from SSS-NIBE, Dr. Sanjeev Mishra, shed light on the advantages of third-generation biofuel derived from algae, emphasizing its abundance and absence of conflict with food production.
Dr. Sarbjit Singh Sooch, Principal Scientist at PAU Ludhiana, provided insights into biogas plant installation techniques and underscored the importance of government policies in fostering sustainable energy initiatives. He highlighted the pivotal role of institutions like Punjab Agriculture University in promoting biogas technology across different regions of Punjab.
Dr. Lakmir Singh, Coordination, Department of Biotechnology and Dr. Ashish Sharma, Coordinator, Department of Botany and Environmental Science extended gratitude, emphasizing the necessity of technological innovation and resource sustainability in driving the transition towards sustainable energy.
Among the dignitaries present were Dr. Rajbala, Assistant Professor in the Department of Environmental Science, Dr, Arun Singh Pathania, Assistant Professor, Biotechnology and Dr Amandeep Brar, Assistant Professor, Department of Microbiology at the University.