Experts have underscored the importance of research in finding sustainable solutions for the management and utilization of invasive aquatic plants.
Speaking at the International Network for the Utilization of Invasive Aquatic Plants (INIAP) conference Dr. Andrew Ross from the University of Leeds explained how utilization of aquatic plants can effectively help in the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
He said Biofuels produced from water hyacinth can reduce greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional fossil fuels. When burned, biofuels release carbon dioxide, but it is offset by the carbon dioxide absorbed during the growth of the plants, making them carbon-neutral or even carbon-negative in some cases.
“Producing biofuel from water hyacinth can enhance energy security by diversifying the sources of energy used for transportation and power generation. It reduces dependence on imported fossil fuels and strengthens domestic energy production.” He said.
He added that this can also create economic opportunities in regions affected by the plant’s invasive growth.
“It can be used to make animal feeds, provide jobs in harvesting, processing, and distribution, as well as support the growth of a sustainable bioenergy industry,” said Ross.
In his presentation, the CEO Biogas International Limited, Dominic Wanjihia explained the production of biofuel Water Hyacinth and feedstock harvesting, Conversion, Purification and Distribution.
He said that producing biofuel from water hyacinth offers a range of environmental, economic, and social benefits, contributing to a more sustainable and resilient energy system.
“We need to rally the world to tap into these clean energy sources. It has vast advantages like Waste Management. Water hyacinth is an invasive plant species that can rapidly spread and clog waterways, impacting aquatic ecosystems and hindering water transport. By harvesting and utilizing water hyacinth for biofuel production, it helps to control the growth of this plant and mitigate its negative environmental impacts.” Wanjihia said.
He added that Biofuels derived from water hyacinth are considered a renewable energy source, because the plants can be grown and harvested continuously.
In her remarks, Dr. Mary Suzan Abbo, the Executive Director Centre for Research in Energy and Energy Conservation (CREEC), said the successful launch of the 1st annual INIAP conference signifies a significant step towards addressing the global issue of invasive aquatic plants and underscores the importance of research and development in finding sustainable solutions for their management and utilization.
She added that the event also provided a platform for networking and knowledge exchange among attendees, fostering collaborations that aims at advancing the field of aquatic plant management.l
INIAP
The International Network for the Utilization of Invasive Aquatic Plants (INIAP) is an organization dedicated to addressing the challenges posed by invasive aquatic plants through research, collaboration, and innovation.
By bringing together experts, researchers, policymakers, and stakeholders from around the world, INIAP aims to develop sustainable solutions for managing and utilizing invasive aquatic plants in ways that benefit both the environment and local communities.
