Bio-Enzymatic Decomposition of Crop Residue: A Scalable Solution to Stubble Burning in India

Stubble burning in Northern India remains a serious environmental and public health concern. This study investigates the potential of bio-enzyme formulations as a scalable, cost-effective alternative for crop residue decomposition. By combining expert interviews, field visits, and controlled experiments using three different bio-enzyme compositions, the study finds that higher concentrations of jaggery and yeast substantially enhance microbial activity and accelerate stubble breakdown. The findings underscore the viability of integrating bio-enzyme use with agricultural machinery and supportive policies, thereby offering a feasible path to reducing reliance on stubble burning.