B 2.6. Are there any statutes on emissions of atmospheric pollutants from boilers fed with sugar-cane bagasse?
The bagasse is a lignocellulosic waste left by the sugar-cane juice extraction process. Because it contains a large amount of fibers, it can be used as a fuel for boilers, replacing the fossil fuels that are generally used in the country (fuel oil and natural gas). It is now considered an important byproduct for increasing the energy to be exported by sugar and ethanol plants in the future (thereby improving the current processes). One of the main advantages to using the bagasse is that it does not result in emissions of sulphur compounds (SOx) in the atmosphere. In order to regulate the emission of atmospheric pollutants from industrial sources, the National Environment Council has passed CONAMA Resolution no. 382/2006. Concerning emissions from boilers where sugar-cane bagasse is burned to generate thermal energy, it sets limits on the emission of particulate matter and nitrogen oxides. These requirements apply nationwide, but the Resolution provides that the state agencies may apply
