Pune, 18 September 2025: Scientists at the Green Hydrogen Research Centre of MIT World Peace University (MIT-WPU) in Pune have created a groundbreaking, carbon-negative method to generate both BioCNG and Green Hydrogen from a combination of agricultural waste.
Dr. Ratnadip Joshi, the associate director of the Green Hydrogen Research Centre at MIT-WPU, explained that unlike many initiatives that depend on a single feedstock like paddy straw or napier grass, this study shows success using mixed agricultural waste, such as millet trash and other seasonal crop residues. This method is especially beneficial for areas experiencing low rainfall and drought conditions.
He also stated that this innovation backs India's Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative and the LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) philosophy. It is also in line with the National Green Hydrogen Mission, which targets the production of 5 million metric tonnes of Green Hydrogen each year by 2030.
During the study, a bio-culture was developed to achieve a 12% efficiency in transforming biomass into gas. A pilot facility, with the capacity to process 500 kg daily and supported by four approved patents, has been established on the MIT-WPU campus. The biogas produced contained a high concentration of methane, which was then utilized to produce green hydrogen through a green catalytic pyrolysis technique.
According to a report by the Indian Express, Aniket Patrikar, a Ph.D. research scholar at MIT World Peace University, mentioned, "We have used a pyrolysis catalyst derived from plants, helping us produce green hydrogen without carbon dioxide emissions, thus eliminating the need for expensive carbon capture systems. The process also produces Biochar, a valuable byproduct used in industries such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, fertilizers, and construction.”
