Can palm oil waste be a solution to fossil fuel scarcity and environmental sustainability? A Malaysian case study provides the answer

Abstract

The main aim of this paper is to examine the potential of energy resources of non-fossil origin as a feasible alternative that will enhance energy security and environmental sustainability. This is examined quantitatively based on a case study in the state of Sarawak located in Malaysia. It is demonstrated that optimizing the use of palm oil waste from the palm oil industry in Sarawak for bioenergy production can be a crucial means of mitigating the pressing problems of hydrocarbon resource scarcity, waste disposal and the greenhouse effect. The conclusion is that biomass in general, and palm oil waste in particular can be a sustainable energy source to rely on in the near future especially for the emerging Asian economies.