A BIOREFINERY is an industrial facility that transforms biomass into various valuable products, similar to how petr-oleum refineries convert crude oil into fuels and chemicals. By using biological feedstock, like agricultural residue, woody biomass and algae, biorefineries create biofuels, bio-based chemicals, and other high-value items.

These facilities employ advanced technologies and integrated processes to make the most of biomass, which is essential for moving towards a sustainable bio-based economy. Countries like the United States, Germany, Finland and Canada have been spearheading the development of biorefineries, fostering innovation and gaining substantial adv-antages from these sustainable initiatives.

Common feedstock for biorefineries include agricultural residue, like wheat straw, rice husk, and sugarcane bagasse, forestry residue, such as wood chips and sawdust, municipal solid waste (MSW), like paper, food scrap and yard trimmings, industrial by-products from food proce-ssing, as well as animal manure and treated sewage sludge. In Pakistan, these resources are plentiful.

The future of biorefineries in Pakistan looks promising, especially given the country’s abundant agricultural reso-urces and the increasing global focus on sustainability. Biorefineries have the potential to significantly transform Pakistan’s energy and industrial sectors. By promoting biorefineries, Pakistan could reap numerous environmental and economic benefits.

Renewable biofuels and bioproducts could help decrease the nation’s depen-dence on fossil fuels and lower greenhouse gas emissions, which aligns with its climate change goals. Additionally, biorefineries would support sustainable agriculture by making use of waste materials as well as providing farmers with an extra source of income.

With advancements in technology, Pakistan has the opportunity to emerge as a centre for bio-based industries in South Asia, attracting both local and international investors. The sector holds significant growth potential due to the country’s underutilised renewable resources. By converting agricultural waste into biofuels, bio-based chemicals, and other value-added products, investors can tap into the rising demand for sust-ainable goods in both local and global markets.

Additionally, the sector can generate employment, bolster rural economies, and encourage technological innovation, making it an appealing investment avenue for progressive entrepreneurs and corporations.

To promote investment in biorefineries, the government should establish supportive policies that encourage investors, and minimise entry barriers. The government could provide tax incentives, subsidies and financial support to businesses that invest in biorefineries.

Furthermore, a favourable regulatory environment should be established to ensure that biorefinery operations comply with environmental standards while simplifying licensing and permitting processes to facilitate the establishment of new plants.

The government should invest in infrastructure and encourage public-private partnerships. Also, raising awa-reness about the advantages of biorefin-eries among communities and industries, along with offering technical training, would help develop a skilled workforce ready to support this expanding sector.

Dr Muhammad Anwar Farooq
Rahim Yar Khan

Published in Dawn, February 18th, 2025