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Anaerobic digesters convert waste into biogas, which is burned to produce electricity. The process reduces odors and pathogens in manure and can make farms more viable. Proponents claim it reduces dependence on fossil fuels and can reduce methane emissions. Opponents argue it only minimally reduces odors and can release harmful pollutants into the air.
Anaerobic digesters are biological treatment processes that transform waste into biogas. This biogas is then used to create electricity. When waste, both animal and plant, is put into the digester, anaerobic microbes digest the waste and produce methane as a byproduct. This biogas is then burned to produce electricity. The process can reduce odors and pathogens in manure and can make farms more viable.
Anaerobic digesters use anaerobic metabolism to do their job. When microbes digest food without the presence of oxygen, they can produce methane and other byproducts as a result. In anaerobic digesters, the target is methane gas. It is important to note that this process must take place in the absence of oxygen. Otherwise, depending on the type of microbes used, the microbes will start producing carbon dioxide and water or they will die.
When manure or other waste is processed by anaerobic digesters and methane is produced, the biogas is driven to a turbine where it is burned. The combustion of methane releases the energy stored within the methane molecules. This energy is used to spin the plant’s turbines and produce electricity. Waste heat can also be used. Many times it is used as heating for the building or for hot water in farms.
Proponents of anaerobic digesters derive numerous benefits from its use. They claim that digesters are able to produce energy by burning methane from organic waste rather than fossil fuels. They also say these digesters can improve manure storage and handling methods. Locally, they are able to reduce odors and weed seeds that make their way into the manure.
Proponents also round up regional and global reasons to use them. Regionally, they state that anaerobic digesters can reduce pathogens in manure without depleting nutrients. They also say this treatment process can provide power grid support for cities. Globally, anaerobic digesters can reduce methane emissions. It can also be used as a way to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
There are those, however, who disagree that anaerobic digesters are the best option. Opponents say anaerobic digesters only minimally reduce manure odors. They also note that digesters are unable to reduce chemical waste. Digesters, they say, can also release oxides of nitrogen and sulfur, as well as particulate matter, carbon monoxide and ammonia into the air. Some also argue that anaerobic digesters can help factory farms conquer small farming communities.
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