How does the AD process depend on microbes?

Anaerobic digestion or AD is a long-established and important technology that helps us manage our waste. AD uses microbes to break down waste organic matter without oxygen being present.

We depend on microbes to turn sewage sludge, food waste and crop residues into energy and fertiliser using anaerobic digestion (AD). Scientists are analyzing DNA from the complex microbial communities involved. Their research is transforming our understanding of the processes behind AD and promises to increase its waste recycling potential.