Why is it in the news?

• Utilizing press mud, a by-product of sugarcane, has the potential to generate 460,000 tons of Compressed Bio-Gas (CBG) valued at Rs 2,484 crore.

About Press Mud

• Residual solid product from sugarcane juice before sugar crystallization.
• Part of major waste products alongside bagasse and molasses in the sugar industry.
• Acts as a valuable feedstock for biogas production.
• Subjected to anaerobic digestion to create Compressed Bio-Gas (CBG).
• Enhances soil structure by providing organic matter.
• Improves air circulation within the soil.
• Increases water retention capacity of the soil.
• Contributes to sustainable energy with the production of CBG.
• Utilizes anaerobic digestion to extract energy while reducing waste.

However, prolonged storage may lead to gradual decomposition