Biodegradable waste
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Biodegradable waste is a type of waste, typically originating from plant or animal sources, which may be broken down by other living organisms.
It can be commonly found in municipal solid waste (sometimes called biodegradable municipal waste [BMW]) as:
Other biodegradable waste includes:
[edit] Uses of biodegradable waste
Biodegradable waste is a little recognised resource. Through correct waste management, often using the two key processes of anaerobic digestion and composting, it can be converted into valuable products.
Anaerobic digestion converts biodegradable waste into several products, including biogas, which can be used to generate renewable energy or heat for local heating, and soil amendment (digestate). Composting converts biodegradable waste into compost.
[edit] Biodegradable waste and global warming
Biodegradable waste is an important substance due to its links with global warming. When it is disposed of in landfills, it breaks down under uncontrolled anaerobic conditions. This produces landfill gas which, if not harnessed, escapes into the atmosphere. Landfill gas contains methane, a more potent greenhouse gas than carbon dioxide.
The European Union Landfill Directive puts key requirements on member states for the management of biodegradable waste in order to stop global warming.
[edit] See also
- Animal By-Products Regulations UK biodegradable waste legislation
- Biodegradation
- Climate change
- Landfill Allowance Trading Scheme
- Landfill tax
- Waste types
