What is anaerobic digestion?

Anaerobic digestion is a biological process that occurs in the absence of oxygen, where microorganisms break down organic material, resulting in the production of biogas and digestate. This process is particularly important in managing organic waste, as it not only reduces the volume of waste but also generates renewable energy in the form of biogas, which can be used for heating or electricity generation.

In this context, the focus is on the lack of oxygen, which differentiates anaerobic digestion from other forms of decomposition, such as aerobic digestion, which requires oxygen. During anaerobic digestion, the microorganisms involved thrive in an oxygen-free environment, enabling them to efficiently convert organic materials like food waste, agricultural residues, and sewage sludge into valuable resources while minimizing greenhouse gas emissions compared to direct decomposition methods.

Options that suggest decomposition in the presence of moisture, at high temperatures, or through mechanical processes either describe different waste management approaches or do not accurately reflect the fundamental nature of anaerobic digestion, which is distinctively characterized by the absence of oxygen.