A new feasibility study has found that cattle markets in Punjab could become a major source of climate finance, by converting animal waste into energy, fertiliser, and internationally tradable carbon credits.
The study, conducted by the Punjab Cattle Market Management and Development Company, shows that manure generated across major cattle markets can be processed into biogas, organic fertilizer, and carbon credits, creating a new revenue stream for the public sector.
Punjab’s largest cattle markets, including those in Multan, Chichawatni, Arifwala, Sheikhupura, Lahore, and Jhang, collectively handle over 80,000 animals weekly, producing around 87,000 kilograms of manure daily.
Currently, most of this waste is left unmanaged, releasing methane, a highly potent greenhouse gas into the atmosphere. The study proposes installing biogas plants using anaerobic digesters, which would capture methane and convert it into usable energy, while also producing fertiliser and carbon credits.
Initial findings show that four markets are Multan, Chichawatni, Sheikhupura, and Arifwala, which are commercially viable, with Multan and Chichawatni identified as priority sites. These sites alone could generate thousands of carbon credits annually, along with significant volumes of biogas and fertiliser.
Over a five-year period, the project could produce around 2 million carbon credits, which can be sold internationally, potentially generating millions of dollars in foreign exchange. Officials say the project could also improve waste management, reduce pollution, provide cleaner fuel alternatives, and support agriculture, while creating new business opportunities.