ReviewoftheAdvantagesandDisadvantagesofAnaerobic.docVIP

The Advantages And Disadvantages Of Anaerobic Digestion As A Renewable Energy Source . Peter Stuart Loughborough University Loughborough, Leics LE11 3TU Abstract: The benefits and drawbacks of anaerobic digestion as a waste stabilisation process and renewable energy source are explored. The process is found to have a broad spectrum of benefits but its inherent complexities and high capital cost continue to inhibit uptake. 1. INTRODUCTION Anaerobic digestion is a process by which environmentally hazardous organic wastes from municipal, agricultural and industrial sources may be stabilised. The treatment has many side benefits, most notably the production of methane-rich biogas which can be used to generate electricity and heat. Anaerobic digestion is performed by a consortium of micro-organisms. In the absence of oxygen the anaerobic bacteria break down organic matter producing methane and carbon dioxide. Several other methods of dealing with organic wastes exist, including aerobic digestion, direct application to land and combustion. These methods either utilize the available biomass as a fertiliser or a fuel, but not both as is the case with anaerobic digestion. Unfortunately the use of anaerobic digestion is not as widespread as the other options. 2. ADVANTAGES The primary use of anaerobic digestion is waste stabilisation. There are however many ancillary benefits which must be fully exploited in order to ensure the economic viability of the process. 2.1 Available Resources The starting material for anaerobic digestion is normally some form of waste unless biomass has been produced specifically for use as a feedstock. A vast amount of waste is available for processing from a variety of sources: Domestic / Municipal Waste: The UK produces nearly 30 million tonnes of domestic waste each year. 60% of household waste is biodegradable of which 25% is kitchen waste and other organics and 30-35% is paper [1]. Sewage Waste: The UK produces an estimated one and a