Brussels, 18th of September, 2024. The Biomethane Industrial Partnership publishes today its latest report “Improving Digestate Valorisation: Novel Technologies and Research Needs.” This study, presented during the ESNI Conference 2024 – Growing the Future of Nutrient Recycling in Brussels, focuses on leveraging research and innovation to enhance the economic and environmental value of digestate, a by-product of the anaerobic digestion (AD) process, by recovering essential nutrients and creating valuable products for various industries.
The report, prepared by BIP Task Force 5.2, provides a comprehensive review of the current state of digestate in the EU, including current production, relevant legislation, and existing digestate processing technologies, such as solid-liquid separation, ammonia stripping, and membrane filtration. It assesses the environmental benefits of digestate, including its role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and its potential to improve soil health and support the circular economy by reducing reliance on synthetic fertilisers. The study underscores the strategic importance of digestate valorisation in the EU’s efforts to transition towards a more sustainable and circular economy.
Erik Meers, Professor at Ghent University and Co-Chair of the BIP Task Force 5, commented: “This report is an important step towards our goal of achieving 35 billion cubic meters of sustainable biomethane by 2030. By improving the valorisation of digestate, we not only enhance the economic viability of AD plants but also make a substantial contribution to environmental sustainability. Our findings underscore the importance of continued innovation and collaboration across the industry.”
Jimmy Roussel, Senior Research Engineer at Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology and Leader of BIP Task Force 5.2, added: “The potential of digestate as a valuable resource is considerable. This report highlights how novel technologies can transform waste into a resource that benefits both the economy and the environment. Our research provides a roadmap for the future, emphasising the need for targeted investments and supportive policies to maximise the benefits of digestate valorisation.”
The report identifies gaps in existing technology (including NPK extraction, other valuable compound extraction, microbial valorisation, cross-sectorial use, and improved digestate quality) and recommends future research and innovation activities, considering factors like technology maturity, market readiness, environmental impact, and policy. It concludes that continued innovation and supportive policy frameworks are crucial to maximise digestate’s benefits, advancing biomethane production, and fostering long-term agriculture sustainability. By leveraging advanced technologies and fostering a more adaptive regulatory environment, digestate can play a key role in reducing environmental impact, strengthening energy security, and supporting sustainable farming practices.