Riviera Maya, Q.R. — State officials are working on two projects that will promote the use of energy from organic waste. The Government of Quintana Roo reports collaborating with the National Council of Biogas (CNBiogás) and the German Cooperation for Sustainable Development (GIZ), in the development of a roadmap and a pre-feasibility study that will allow recognizing, managing and channeling this sustainable energy source.
The Secretary of Ecology and Environment, Efraín Villanueva Arcos, reported that two studies have been done. The electric power generation project and compost for the island territory of Cozumel, and a biomethane generation project for the municipality of Benito Juárez and Isla Mujeres.
Villanueva said that through these projects, the increase in the participation of renewable energies, the reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and the increase in energy efficiency are promoted.
The electricity generation and composting project consists of the construction of a treatment plant for the organic fraction of urban solid waste from hotels, beach clubs and restaurants in Cozumel.
It is beneficial for the economy, the environment and society as a whole. It will allow the useful life of the landfill to be extended, mitigating greenhouse gas emissions. The built model creates consistent value in sustainability, in the management of organic waste and the generation of clean energy.
From the financial and economic perspective, it is foreseen as a viable project. Bancomext and Banobras consider that it is a consistent, demonstrative project with a high socio-environmental impact.
The biomethane generation project in the municipalities of Benito Juárez and Isla Mujeres consists of the installation of a biodigestion module for the production of bioethanol from waste from the selection plants of Benito Juárez (Cancun), Isla Mujeres and Puerto Morelos.
It will make it possible to enhance benefits both in terms of reducing GHG emissions and in the continuity of operations by maintaining the availability of coverage material for final disposal.
The financial evaluation of the project presents positive results and is also beneficial for the economy, the environment and society as a whole. It creates value through sustainability in the management of organic waste and the generation of renewable bioenergy.
Bancomext and Banobras consider that due to the magnitude of the project it is attractive for private investment or a para-municipal company. The sale of biomethane would be through contracts with market conditions since the product has a very competitive price.
