An integrated approach for efficient energy recovery production from livestock and agro-industrial wastes

Abstract

The supply and food safety needs of the growing population, particularly in (peri) urban areas, promote the intensification, concentration, and specialization of human, agricultural, livestock, and agro-industrial activities. As a result, important quantities of waste and wastewater, with significant organic and nutrient loads, are generated and need to be managed properly in order to protect the soil quality and fertility, as well as to prevent water and air pollution. Among the models, processes, treatment, and recovery technologies, anaerobic digestion can be highlighted due to the production of biogas, a renewable energy source. The understanding of the spatiotemporal patterns of the resources and the conditions of waste and wastewater production and use provided by the analysis of these complex and adaptive socio-ecological systems, together with the knowledge of the biological process of biogas production, will support the selection and optimization of technologies, as well as the sizing and location of biogas plants for the promotion of renewable energy and local level economies. This integrated, hierarchical, and multidisciplinary approach takes a critical nature in the definition of technical and organizational solutions that contribute to sustainable development, for the effective quality of life, the local environment, and economy.