Water Depletion & Pollution
Ethanol factories require large amounts of water (8-12 liters per liter of ethanol).
Farmers near ethanol plants fear that water resources for agriculture will be drained, especially during lean periods in rivers.
Factories discharge hazardous chemicals into nearby rivers, polluting water sources used by farmers.
Environmental Impact
Emissions from ethanol factories include harmful chemicals like acetaldehyde, formaldehyde, and acrolein, which are cancer-causing.
Despite being classified as high-pollution ‘red category’ industries, ethanol factories often bypass public hearings and environmental checks.
Critics argue that the production process of biofuels may have a more harmful environmental impact than the benefits it offers.
Impact on Farmers and Local Communities
Protests have occurred in Andhra Pradesh, particularly in villages near ethanol plants, due to water contamination and pollution.
Pollution and water scarcity concerns are exacerbated by the location of factories near human settlements and agricultural lands.
Government Policies & Public Response
The Central government aims to increase ethanol blending in petrol to 20% by 2025, but concerns remain about the environmental toll.
Relaxations in clearance processes and subsidies for ethanol factories have raised concerns about the prioritization of industrial growth over environmental protection.
Experts urge the government to address these concerns without dismissing environmental issues, balancing development with sustainable practices.
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