Anaerobic Digestion

Anaerobic Digestion technology is used internationally to process organic waste in the absence of oxygen. As microrganisms break down the waste, they generate a biogas that can be used as a renewable energy source. The remaining material (digestate) can be composted and used as a fertiliser.

SOILCO is actively seeking approval for dry anaerobic digestion technologies at some of its greenfield sites, including its proposed Badgerys Creek Clean Energy Compost Manufacturing Facility (CECMF). The CECMF’s anaerobic digesters will be able to accept up to 40,000 tpa of organic waste to produce renewable biogas. This biogas will then be used to produce most of the energy required to run the facility.

Closing the loop by recycling organic waste has great environmental outcomes.

Putting organic matter into landfill is the reverse to composting. The organic matter is pressed into the landfill and then sealed off, cutting the oxygen supply. The organic matter breaks down anaerobically, releasing harmful greenhouse gases that can escape into the atmosphere and contribute to climate change. Over time nutrients leach out, polluting waterways and harming aquatic life. The best value – and the highest value – for organic matter is returning it to the soil in an urban or agricultural environment.