GIS-Based Cluster and Suitability Analysis of Crop Residues: A Case Study in Yangon Region, Myanmar

Abstract

In the study of biomass assessment, geospatial modeling-based analysis becomes crucial for the sustainable management of agriculture. Currently, there is no integrated sustainability assessment of the geographic information system (GIS) cluster or suitability analysis for the feedstock of crop residues. In order to fill this research gap and support the strategy of bioenergy formulation with the circular economy concept in agriculture residues in Myanmar, this study aims to assess the energy generation potential and site locations of treatment facilities for crop residue, utilizing the integrated assessment of GIS cluster and suitability modeling. The cluster analysis identifies the rice straw as the highest feedstock of crop residues and township-based high/low clusters. In addition, the electricity generation potential is estimated at 279.14 MW for different clusters of rice straw. Moreover, the suitability analysis in the study uses the conceptual model of variables for constraints and factors with the analytical hierarchy process (AHP) technique to evaluate the weights. The suitability analysis found high suitability areas of 14,603 hectares for treatment facilities within the high/low cluster of feedstock for rice straw. The multicriteria and GIS integrated assessment model adopted in this research can support the decision-makers in developing spatial-based strategic planning for bioenergy promotion which will support sustainable farming practices in Myanmar. Additionally, the proposed model is adaptable in study areas with similar feedstock.