Perspective Through Monte Carlo Simulations for Open Field Burning Emission in Indonesia and Alternative Way of Using Rice Straw as Particle Board Production

Abstract

Indonesia is the third-largest paddy producer in the world. From 2019 to 2021 total paddy harvested was more than 100 million tonnes. This huge quantity has an inherent by-product, i.e., rice straw, even in a more significant amount. Unfortunately, poor rice straw management causes farmers to treat the waste by open field burning. Monte Carlo simulations were performed to investigate the side effect of the open-burning treatment. This paper also discussed the worth of considering applications of using rice straw that could make rice straw more valuable. The uniform probability distribution was used to deal with the uncertainty of gas emissions generated from the open field burning of rice straw. In this scheme, at the highest estimate, more than 300 million tonnes of CO2 are released into the atmosphere each year when Indonesia does not apply well management of rice straws. Another 8 million tonnes of other emissions CO, (fine) particulate matter, N2O, NOx, CH4, NMHC, and SO2. Those pollutants more harmful to human health and well-being are also released. Transforming rice straw to particle board has great potential due to this application’s high demand and value. It is also an environmentally friendly approach since it can potentially reduce deforestation. In conclusion, appropriate treatment of rice straw management will significantly contribute to the sustainable development of Indonesia.