Suitability of the Lantana Weed as a Substrate for Biogas Production

Biogas technology is a source of renewable energy. It involves the biomethanation of biological waste to energy in the form of biogas which is a boon for sustainable agriculture to meet its partial needs in rural areas. There are so many substrates which can be used in biogas plants. In India, primarily cattle dung is the organic substrate used for the production of biogas. Rural and urban areas of developing countries produce various cellulosic biomass (agricultural residues, cattle dung, etc.), having a very good potential to meet the energy demand. Biogas technology is contributing towards socio-economic development as well as environmental protection. However, availability of this substrate in optimum quantity is one of the major impediments in the successful operation of biogas plants, and therefore, majority of the biogas digesters are underfed. Thus, there is a need to explore the biogas potential of other available organic substrates. The present chapter discusses the various substrates employed for biogas production. Specific emphasis is given to the suitability of lantana plant for biogas production. The main challenges and potential opportunities in biogas production using an invasive lantana weed are also discussed.