Albion\’s ABC\’s of Waste Management – A

 A – Anaerobic Digestion (AD)

Anaerobic digestion (AD) is a natural process where in the absence of oxygen, micro-organisms/methanogens break down organic, biodegradable matter to create biogas and nutrient rich fertiliser. The process is used to treat organic waste such as food waste, waste water and animal manure. The biogas that is harvested can be used to produce heat and electricity or alternatively it can be treated to create biomethane which can be fed direct to the national grid. There are two methods of anaerobic digestion, mesophilic which operates around 35-40 degrees centigrade and thermophilic which can reach up to 60 degrees centigrade and the method used is determined by the feedstock that is to be processed. Albion Environmental have assisted anaerobic digestion plants to ensure that if they accept animal by-products (ABPs) and / or catering waste, that they are compliant with the Animal by Product regulations ensuring that the end products are safe. For further information on Anaerobic Digestion please visit ‘Anaerobic Digestion and Biosources Association http://adbioresources.org/ or the Biogass Association http://www.biogas.org.uk/