Anaerobic Digestion (AD)

Anaerobic Digestion (AD) composts biodegradable waste (such as food, garden waste, card and paper) in the absence of oxygen, producing biogas that can be used to generate clean renewable electricity. Another end product is called the 'digestate' and can be used as a fertiliser and soil conditioner. It is not a new technology, having been used in the UK since the late 1800s

The official Anaerobic Digestion (AD) information portal provides lots of information on AD. There is an excellent overview of AD as well as a Map of UK operational Anaerobic Digestion, showing just how widespread its use is. At 9/2/12 there were 72 operating sites: 45 taking waste as their input and 26 taking farm materials.