Pakistan approves first rice waste biorefinery with $75 million investment

Punjab: Pakistan has approved its first biorefinery project to convert rice straw waste into clean energy, marking a major step toward sustainable agriculture. The $75 million project will be established near Qila Didar Singh over 128 acres with foreign investment involvement. The plant will process around 2000 tons of rice residue daily, producing approximately 300 tons of ethanol and 150 tons of biomethane. This initiative under the Land, Agriculture & Tourism Cluster reflects a strong Government Policy to reduce environmental damage caused by crop burning and promote bioenergy solutions. For Punjab, this can improve air quality, support farmers, and create new economic opportunities. Will this project reduce smog and benefit farmers in your area?