Green energy from waste: Evaluating the sustainability of anaerobic biofuel technologies
Nagarjuna Prakash Dalbanjan, Karuna Korgaonkar, Arihant Jayawant Kadapure, Sachin Basavaraj Halladamani, Gulappagouda Ramangouda, S. K. Praveen Kumar
Abstract
Anaerobic biofuel production converts organic waste into biogas, solving environmental and energy issues. This review covers hydrolysis, acidogenesis, acetogenesis, and methanogenesis in anaerobic digestion, highlighting technological advances that improve efficiency and scalability. Biogas production is being explored using agricultural, municipal, and industrial wastes. Anaerobic digestion reduces greenhouse gas emissions, optimizes resource use, and manages waste. Life cycle assessment measures energy balance, carbon footprint, and water footprint. Improved digester designs, pre-treatment methods, and integration with other renewable energy systems contribute to biogas yields and energy reliability. The importance of supportive government policies, financial incentives, and overcoming economic barriers are discussed. Comparative analysis with other renewable energy sources, like solar and wind, demonstrates the unique advantages and limitations of anaerobic biofuel technologies. Finally, future perspectives and recommendations identify research gaps, scaling up potential, and policymaker, industry stakeholder, and researcher strategies. This review underscores the critical role of anaerobic biofuel production in promoting environmental sustainability and advancing towards a renewable energy future.