Waste not, want not. The age-old proverb has never been more relevant.
Aerobic composting (AD) and anaerobic digestion (AC) turn organic waste into valuable resources. The first uses oxygen to break down organic matter into nutrient-rich compost. Meanwhile, the second works without oxygen, producing biogas and digestate.
Both are crucial contributors to sustainable waste management.
In this guide, we’ll explore the many ways businesses can monetize the byproducts of these processes.
Valuable Byproducts From Anaerobic Digestion
Anaerobic digestion breaks down organic matter without any oxygen. This process has two primary byproducts: biogas and digestate. Biogas is a unique blend of methane and carbon dioxide and can serve as a versatile energy source.
It can be:
- Converted into electricity through combustion engines or turbines.
- Upgraded into biomethane – a renewable natural gas substitute for conventional natural gas.
- Used as a transportation fuel for vehicles or as feedstock for producing other fuels.
On the other hand, digestate is the solid or liquid residue remaining after biogas production. It’s rich in nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. It can be a valuable fertilizer to improve soil health and crop yields.
Case Studies
Many businesses have already monetized these byproducts, and they’ve been successful.
For instance, Maas Energy Works turns dairy manure into renewable natural gas (RNG) through anaerobic digestion. They've built multiple digesters across the United States to process manure from thousands of cows. The RNG produced is then sold to fuel heavy-duty vehicles for a cleaner transportation sector.
Clean Energy Fuels Corp. also collaborates with companies like Maas Energy Works to expand its RNG production. They convert biogas into ultra-clean RNG and distribute it through a network of fueling stations.
Monetizing Byproducts From Aerobic Composting
Aerobic composting turns organic waste into the most valuable soil amendment: compost. This nutrient-rich byproduct improves the soil’s structure, fertility, and water retention. High-quality compost can be sold at a premium price.
Businesses can capitalize on compost's market value with the right packaging and distribution. Offering compost in various sizes, from bulk to bagged, can help garner a larger and more diverse customer base.
Clear labeling can showcase the compost's benefits and target plant species to attract even more specific buyers.
Case Studies
We know of several successful composting operations that show just how profitable it can be.
CERO Cooperative collects food waste from businesses and turns it into high-quality compost. They offer waste disposal solutions and generate revenue from compost sales. It’s a sustainable business model that benefits clients and the environment.
Bootstrap Compost focuses on residential and commercial food scrap pickup. It monetizes its services with subscription fees and compost sales while donating compost to local gardens.
Envar is a UK-based composting facility that offers premium compost quality by sticking to stringent standards like PAS-100. Their high-quality compost is mainly used for agriculture and landscaping in place of environmentally harmful peat.
Quantum Biopower has created multiple revenue streams through aerobic composting. They’ve combined the process with composting to produce high quality products and renewable energy.
Economic and Environmental Benefits
Economic Benefits of Anaerobic Digestion and Aerobic Composting
One of the main upsides is monetizing byproducts from anaerobic digestion and aerobic composting. These processes turn organic waste into valuable products like biogas, digestate, and compost.
Businesses can sell or convert these byproducts into energy to generate more revenue. These processes add to a circular economy where waste becomes a resource. That means minimal reliance on virgin materials and the costs that come with it.
Diverting organic waste from landfills with the help of composting and anaerobic digestion also leads to major cost savings. Landfilling comes with tons of fees, while processing organic matter on-site can be very resourceful. Additionally, reduced waste disposal expenses contribute to a healthier bottom line.
Environmental Impact of Anaerobic Digestion and Aerobic Composting
Of course, these processes are also great for the environment. Firstly, anaerobic digestion and aerobic composting can mitigate climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
That’s because methane is captured and used as biogas in anaerobic digestion. Composting reduces the need for chemical fertilizers to enhance soil health and biodiversity.
Moreover, these processes contribute to resource conservation. Compost improves soil fertility, which reduces the need for synthetic fertilizers. Biogas can replace fossil fuels, so there’s minimal dependence on non-renewable energy sources.
Regulatory Compliance and Risk Mitigation
Businesses face tremendous pressure to reduce their environmental impact. Anaerobic digestion and aerobic composting allow them to meet their sustainability goals and regulatory requirements and reduce their risk of liabilities and fines.
The more sustainable the businesses are, the more likely they are to rank as industry leaders in eco-friendliness. This way, they can attract socially conscious investors, customers, and partners.
Steps for Implementing and Monetizing These Processes
We know AD and AC can generate more revenue. Now, let’s break down the implementation and monetization steps.
- First, conduct a feasibility study. Is there enough organic waste available, and what’s the potential for biogas or compost production? Are the byproducts in demand right now? Answering these questions is a must.
- Select anaerobic digestion or composting systems based on waste type, desired outputs, and available space. Dry and wet anaerobic digestion are also options.
- Strong partnerships are the key factor here. Collaborate with waste generators, energy providers, farmers, and distributors. This can help secure a stable waste supply and boost biogas or compost sales.
- Funding is necessary for getting started. Explore financing options like grants, loans, or investments. Make sure that revenue streams from biogas sales, compost sales, feed-in tariffs, and carbon credits can cover it.
- Environmental regulations can be tricky to navigate, but they can't be skipped. Adhere to permitting requirements and safety standards.
- Brand identity is customers' first impression – businesses must make certain they convey the environmental benefits and quality of their products effectively. Invest in effective marketing and public relations to build awareness and customer loyalty.
- This is a great chance to enter new markets. There are tons of markets for byproducts, such as the agriculture, horticulture, and renewable energy sectors. Conduct market research to learn customer needs and preferences.
- Diversify with other revenue opportunities beyond biogas or compost sales, such as carbon offset credits, digestate sales, or value-added products.
Conclusion
Anaerobic digestion and aerobic composting are game-changers for the environment. These processes can generate a ton of revenue while reducing our carbon footprint. From biogas to compost, we have endless opportunities for monetization.
At EcoRich, we offer expert guidance to help businesses navigate the details of waste management and use AD and AC to the fullest. Contact us to start achieving sustainability goals today.
