Anaerobic Digestion of Waste

Abstract

All sustainable development closely links to the context of energy and to appropriate solutions to cope with challenges arising from trends of increasing urbanisation, by at the same time allowing for development of rural areas. Biogas production through anaerobic digestion of biomass, including the organic fraction of waste materials and residues, is a particularly promising choice and experiences increasing interest worldwide. It does not only supply a clean and versatile energy carrier, but is well suited to contribute towards appropriate waste management schemes in urban areas and in agriculture. Biogas production has high potential worldwide, and in this chapter special focus is given to its implementation in countries with economies in development or transition. China and India are countries where biogas production is already well-known and often adopted, and more widespread implementation is to be expected. This book chapter also highlights the topic anaerobic digestion in countries in Latin America and Africa. © Springer-Verlag London Limited 2012.