Biogas & Biodigesters

Selected biogas and biodigester resources compiled by MIT D-Lab energy researchers.

 

2.4 billion people live without adequate sanitation, of which 70% live in rural areas, and 2.7 billion people rely on traditional use of polluting fuels for cooking, which causes several problems, including air pollution and respiratory diseases. 

Biogas, which is produced through an anaerobic digestion process, is a feasible and affordable solution to tackle those problems. Additionally, this biofuel can help to reduce the incorrect disposal of the large and increasing volumes of biodegradable waste generated and its climate change effects.

Organizations and institutions

The following organizations have information ranging from anaerobic digestion, biodigesters technology, biogas technical and practical reports, business models, case studies, and other resources.

Sustainable Sanitation and Water Management (SSWM) Toolbox

Energypedia's Biogas Portal 

Department Sanitation, Water and Solid Waste for Development 

Solar CITIES is an open source DIY platform for Biogas Innovators and Practitioners 

National Biodigester Programme (NBP) 

Global Methane Initiative 

Sulabh

Practical Action

blueEnergy

Pronto Bio-toilet

SNV

Sanergy

Sanivation

Biogas production and biodigesters technology

Anaerobic digester types (fixed-dome digester, floating-drum digester, polyethylene tube digester, and balloon type digester)

Biogas Plants

Biofertilizer as a by-product of anaerobic digestion

During the biogas production process, the biofertilizer is also a by-product of the anaerobic digestion. The fertilizer (slurry) from food waste is ready to use after the anaerobic digestion process. However, some guidelines should be considered in order to use urine and feces in crop production. 

Bio-slurry as fertilizer

Methane Digesters for Fuel Gas and Fertilizer

Utilization of digestate from biogas plants as biofertilizer

Guidelines on the Use of Urine and Feces in Crop Production

Publications

Anaerobic Digestion Principles and Practices for Biogas Systems (World Bank, 1986)

Biogas Handbook: Consolidation of Information (UNESCO, 1982)

ISAT, GTZ (1999)


FULL MIT D-LAB ENERGY RESOURCES DIRECTORY