Crisis must spur efficient use of resources, Pg8

Key Highlights:

• The current US-Israel versus-Iran war is having a widespread impact on India's economy, affecting consumers, manufacturers, farmers, and airline companies.
• India's increased dependence on imported energy and resources makes it vulnerable to global crises, similar to the 1970s energy crises.
• The article suggests mainstreaming efficient resource use into government policy and consumer behavior, moving away from practices like fertilizer subsidies.
• The author advocates for promoting ethanol-blending in petrol, incentivizing electrified flex fuel vehicles, and scaling up initiatives like bio-additives in fertilizers.

Detailed Insights:

• India's reliance on imported energy, particularly fossil fuels, necessitates a re-evaluation of resource management strategies.
• The 1970s energy crisis prompted Brazil to launch an ethanol-based transport fuels program, highlighting the potential for alternative solutions.
• Efficient resource use involves recognizing the scarcity value of resources and actively seeking viable alternatives.
• Promoting bio-additives in chemical fertilizers can enhance nutrient uptake and improve soil health, contributing to sustainable agriculture.
• Utilizing dimethyl ether from biomass-derived methanol as an LPG substitute and bio-CNG from agricultural waste can reduce dependence on imported fuels.
• The opportunity cost of imported fuels extends to national security and strategic vulnerabilities, emphasizing the urgency of adopting sustainable practices.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Ethanol-blending: Mixing ethanol with gasoline to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and lower emissions.
• Flex Fuel Vehicles: Vehicles designed to run on gasoline or a blend of gasoline and ethanol, offering fuel flexibility.
• Bio-CNG: Compressed natural gas produced from organic matter like agricultural waste, providing a renewable energy source.