Pine Needles A Source Of Energy For Himalayan Region

Pine trees cover large portions of the Himalayan region and are considered a hazard to cultivation and agriculture as well as the environment. This is because during the summer season, dry pine needles fall from the trees and cover the forest floor. Not only is this detrimental to cultivation, and the growth of grass needed as fodder for livestock, this is also a serious cause of uncontrolled frequent forest fires during the dry months. The focus of this study is to research alternate uses of these dry pine needles, including energy generation, which would result in an economic boost to the region. It would also greatly reduce the risk of forest fires, and therefore be of value from an environmental point of view