Potential substrates for biogas production through anaerobic digestion-an alternative energy source

Abstract

Energy is a crucial part of a comprehensive desire to reach any country's long-term economic and social development. Fossil fuels have for a long time been used as the major global cause of energy. However, dependence on fossil fuels contributes to environmental damage. Biogas generation from biodegradable organic materials is a potential and sustainable substitute for addressing global energy supply inadequacy and curbing the environmental challenges associated with fossil fuels. Biotechnologies particularly anaerobic digestion technology are important process for the recovery of energy from organic materials. Biogas comes from bio-decomposition of various organic substrates and trash. Human excreta, agricultural wastes, industrial food residues, municipal wastes, food wastes and residues, fishery wastes, aquatic plants and forest residues are among the common organic wastes from which biogas is produced today. Properly designed biogas systems play a crucial role in renewable energy production, providing electricity, heating, and lighting from organic waste materials that would otherwise go to landfill. These systems convert agricultural residues, food waste, livestock manure, and even energy crops into biogas, which can be used to power generators, provide heat for cooking, or supply light in homes. In urban and remote areas, biogas digesters offer clean, alternative energy solutions that not only meet local energy demands but also enhance living conditions by reducing the reliance on expensive or polluting energy sources. For instance, households can save on energy costs and improve air quality by using biogas for cooking instead of traditional fuels. Besides, the implementation of biogas technology can significantly mitigate environmental impact by lowering greenhouse gas emissions, reducing waste, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices and supporting circular economy. This review explores a diverse range of potential substrates for biogas production, highlighting their viability as alternatives to fossil fuel-based energy sources and emphasizing the multifaceted benefits they provide to communities.

Keywords: Anaerobic digestion; Biogas; Organic materials; Organic wastes.

Fig. 1

Methane production through different degradation stages and trophic groups of microorganisms as reported in the literature [17,[22], [23], [24]].