Biogas from organic waste in African cities

Abstract

In comparison to bioenergy systems that are based on dedicated energy crops or parts of it, the use of waste materials and residues has received considerably less attention to date, especially with a view to sustainability concerns. This, however, may change in the future, as the competition for organic materials increases. Nevertheless, today one of the main challenges for the twenty-first century is the sustainable management and reuse of waste. This applies to developing, emerging, and developed countries. The focus of using waste for bioenergy production is usually on sustainable waste management, whereas the energy production is seen as a positive side effect. This chapter provides an overview on the different waste treatment options for bioenergy production in Africa and more specifically in three cities in Africa: Addis Ababa (Ethiopia), Arusha (Tanzania), and Johannesburg (South Africa). It shows the urgent need to invest in technologies in urban areas of Africa in order to improve especially health issues. The production of bioenergy is the most promising option to stimulate this investment, as it creates new business and job opportunities.