20. Reducing GHG and NH3 emissions from biowaste through management adaptation

  • Leibniz Institute for Agricultural Engineering and Bioeconomy (ATB)
  • Flanders Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO)
  • China Agriculture University (CAU)
  1. Optimization of Chinese anaerobic digestion systems based on the European systems

Short Description of the technology

Anaerobic digestion (AD) plays a crucial role in mitigating ammonia (NH3) and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, primarily through the conversion of organic waste into biogas and nutrient-rich digestate. This process not only reduces the volume of waste but also enhances energy recovery while minimizing environmental impacts. Effective management practices, including optimizing retention time and organic loading rates, can help mitigate NH3 release. AD significantly lowers GHG emissions compared to traditional manure management, as it captures methane for energy use instead of allowing it to escape into the atmosphere. Implementing advanced AD technologies can enhance energy yield and sustainability, contributing to a circular bioeconomy. While anaerobic digestion presents substantial benefits in reducing NH3 and GHG emissions, challenges remain, particularly regarding the management of digestate after AD.

Innovative features

Adapting advanced European AD practices to fit Chinese substrates and climatic conditions. In addition, highlighting low-emission storage and precision land application techniques to minimize methane, nitrous oxide, and NH3 emissions in the Chinese agriculture systems.

Type of contribution

Reduction in NH3 and GHG emissions from livestock manure

Benefits for farmers, the industry, and the environment

Optimization of Chinese AD systems shall contribute to a better environment by helping to tackle the issue of climate change and air pollution which then results in environmental, social, and economic benefits. It will improve the nutrient conservation in the digestate which shall benefit farmers economically by reducing the per area nutrient input in crops, and the optimized AD Systems shall enhance biogas yield.