Pemanfaatan Energi Biomassa dari Limbah Pertanian sebagai Alternatif Energi untuk Mendukung Ekonomi Berkelanjutan

Abstract

Agricultural waste actually holds great potential as a raw material for biomass energy, yet its utilization to date remains suboptimal. Post-harvest residues such as rice husks, rice straw, corn cobs, and sugarcane bagasse can be converted into alternative energy that is both beneficial and economically valuable. This study aims to examine the potential of agricultural waste as a biomass energy source, the economic benefits that can be obtained, the obstacles to its development, and its role in supporting a sustainable economy. The approach employed is a literature study (library research), which reviews various scientific articles on biomass energy, agricultural waste management, resource use efficiency, and economic sustainability. The findings indicate that using agricultural waste as biomass can diversify energy sources, reduce the amount of discarded residue, and increase the added value of agricultural resources. In addition, biomass processing creates business opportunities and employment through the collection, processing, and distribution of products. Nevertheless, its development still faces several constraints, namely high production costs, limited technology, an uncertain supply of raw materials, and inadequate infrastructure. The removal of excessive amounts of residue must also be avoided, because some organic matter is still needed to maintain soil fertility. Accordingly, biomass energy development requires appropriate technology, planned raw material management, and consideration of economic feasibility and environmental impact.