Biowaste as a feedstock for biogas production – a case study

Abstract

ABSTRACT The use of biowaste and its diversion from landfill aims to reduce the negative impact on the environment and contribute to increasing material recycling and renewable energy production. It has been proven that biogas technology is capable of converting large amounts of biowaste into renewable energy in an economical and sustainable way, replacing unsustainable fossil energy sources, and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. This paper presents the possibility of biogas production in Croatia from separated biowaste as input material. The paper analyzed current bio waste volumes in Croatia and their potential for renewable energy, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of such waste treatment for renewable energy production. The results of the analysis provide data and information for policymakers, planners, and operators in order to sufficiently address management of the separately collected organic fraction of municipal solid waste. They also clearly present environmental benefits associated with the use of digestate derived from this waste fraction.