In the Union Budget 2011-12, a full exemption from basic customs duty was extended to the bio-based asphalt (bioasphalt). What is the importance of this material? 1. Unlike traditional asphalt, bio-asphalt is not based on fossil fuels. 2. Bioasphalt can be made from non-renewable resources. 3. Bioasphalt can be made from organic waste materials. 4. It is eco-friendly to use bioasphalt for surfacing of the roads. Which of the statements given above are correct?

QUESTION

Medium

Environment & Ecology

Prelims 2011

In the Union Budget 2011-12, a full exemption from basic customs duty was extended to the bio-based asphalt (bioasphalt). What is the importance of this material?

Unlike traditional asphalt, bio-asphalt is not based on fossil fuels.
Bioasphalt can be made from non-renewable resources.
Bioasphalt can be made from organic waste materials.
It is eco-friendly to use bioasphalt for surfacing of the roads.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

Select an option to attempt

Explanation

Statement 1 is Correct: Bio-asphalt is derived from biological sources such as plants and organic waste, unlike traditional asphalt (bitumen) which is a semi-solid form of petroleum, a fossil fuel. Statement 2 is Incorrect: Bio-asphalt is specifically characterized by its use of renewable resources (biomass) to reduce reliance on non-renewable petroleum-based products. Statement 3 is Correct: It can be produced from a wide variety of organic waste materials, including lignin, cellulose, palm oil waste, rice/corn starches, and even treated sewage effluent. Statement 4 is Correct: Using bio-asphalt for road surfacing is eco-friendly as it reduces the carbon footprint and environmental pollution associated with the heating and application of traditional petroleum-based bitumen.

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