It turns out that organic waste emits unpleasant odors and has a significant environmental impact. One threat is methane gas from organic waste formed from the decay process. This article will discuss methane gas, its impacts, and how we can help reduce emissions!

What is methane gas, and how is it formed?

Methane gas (CH4) is a greenhouse gas produced by decomposition of organic waste and is a significant factor contributing to climate change. When organic waste, such as food scraps, leaves, and other organic materials decomposes in final disposal sites (TPA), anaerobic bacteria will break down these materials and produce methane gas as a by-product.

Dangers of Methane Gas to the Environment

Why is methane gas dangerous? Because it traps heat in the atmosphere 25 times more effectively than carbon dioxide (CO2). Because of its ability to trap heat, any increase in methane levels in the atmosphere could cause a faster rise in global temperatures. This has a high potential to result in extreme climate phenomena, melting of polar ice, rising sea levels, and ecosystem changes that could endanger life on earth.

In addition, methane gas is flammable. When concentrated in large quantities, methane can be highly explosive. Methane explosions can cause large fires that are difficult to control,  posing significant risks to humans and the environment. That is the reason organic waste management to reduce methane gas emissions is very important to maintain climate balance and reduce the risks associated with methane explosions.

How to Reduce Methane Gas Production from Organic Waste

Reducing methane gas emissions from organic waste isn't complicated! There are several steps we can take, from the individual to the community level:

1. Better Waste Management: Start by sorting organic and inorganic waste at home. Organic waste can be processed into compost so that it doesn't just pile up.
2. Food Waste Reduction: Shop and cook enough to avoid wasting food. You can also make the best use of food waste by making compost or animal feed.
3. Collaborate in the Community: Participate in local recycling and composting programs to help reduce the amount of organic waste that ends up in landfills.

Technology for Processing Organic Waste into Energy

Technology also plays an important role in reducing methane gas emissions. One way is to convert organic waste into energy through a process called anaerobic digestion. In this process, organic waste is broken down by microorganisms in conditions without oxygen, which not only produces methane but also biogas, which can be used as a renewable energy source. This biogas can be processed into electricity, fuel, or gas for household use.

Several cities in Indonesia have begun implementing this technology in their landfills. Besides reducing methane emissions, this technology provides the additional benefit of generating energy for daily use.

Reducing methane gas emissions from organic waste is not only the responsibility of the government or large industry; it is ours too. You can start from small steps at home and in the surrounding environment. With better waste management and technological support, we can together keep the earth comfortable for the next generation to live in!