Waste-to-Energy Directory

Anaerobic Digestion (AD)

A biological process where microorganisms break down organic matter in the absence of oxygen, producing biogas.

Anaerobic digestion uses bacteria to decompose organic waste — food scraps, manure, sewage sludge, and crop residues — in sealed vessels called digesters. The process produces biogas (50-70% methane, 30-50% CO₂) that can be burned for electricity, upgraded to renewable natural gas, or used as vehicle fuel. The solid digestate remaining is a nutrient-rich fertilizer. AD is a cornerstone of circular waste management.