Experts call for research into biofuel production from floating aquatic plants

Experts have called for research into production of biofuel from floating aquatic plants in Uganda.

Speaking during the inaugural event of the International Network for the Utilization of Invasive Aquatic Plants (INIAP), held under the theme “Fostering Research and Development in the Management and Utilization of Aquatic Plants, experts said aquatic plants can be a good source of biofuels for Ugandans.

Dominic Wanjihia, the  CEO Biogas International Limited explained how to tap into the production of biofuel from the  water hyacinth.

He underscored the fact 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.

This, he said  helps reduce reliance on finite fossil fuels and contributes to a more sustainable energy mix.

Dr. Andrew Ross from University of Leeds said biofuels produced from water hyacinth have the potential to 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,” Dr.Ross said.

“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 added that this can also create economic opportunities in regions affected by the plant’s invasive growth.

The conference

The conference that took place at the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel in Kampala  was hosted by the Centre for Research in Energy and Energy Conservation (CREEC) in collaboration with the University of Leeds.

The event brought together experts, researchers, policymakers, and stakeholders from various disciplines to discuss the challenges and opportunities associated with invasive aquatic plants.

Dr. Mary Suzan Abbo, the CREEC Executive Director said that 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.

Abbo added the event also here to provide a platform for networking and knowledge exchange among attendees, fostering collaborations that aim to advance the field of aquatic plant management.

“This conference will be taking place on an annual basis so that people can continue to learn about innovative research approaches, best practices in plant management, and the economic and environmental implications of invasive aquatic plants.” She said.

About 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.

The organization works to promote the responsible utilization of invasive aquatic plants for economic, social, and environmental purposes, while also raising awareness about the importance of managing these species to protect ecosystems and biodiversity.

Through its work, INIAP seeks to foster partnerships and knowledge exchange to advance best practices for the sustainable utilization of invasive aquatic plants on a global scale.

About CREEC
The Centre for Research in Energy and Energy Conservation (CREEC) is a research and development organization based in Uganda.

Established in 2008, CREEC focuses on promoting the sustainable development and use of energy resources in Uganda and the East African region.

The center conducts research, provides training and capacity building, and engages in advocacy and policy dialogue to promote energy efficiency, renewable energy, and energy access for sustainable development.