Management of Biodegradable Waste Intended for Biogas Production in a Large City

Abstract

Biodegradable waste from households, companies, and gastronomy is not utilized in large Polish agglomerations for the production of biogas. Determining the biogas production potential in a selected agglomeration will enable the implementation of circular economy goals and sustainable development objectives. Once appropriate odor neutrality standards are met, biogas plants could be constructed around large cities, supplying both energy and heating systems to nearby housing estates or production facilities. This article aims to assess the potential of biodegradable municipal waste collected in a large city for the production of energy in specialized municipal biogas plants. The following analytical study focuses on Krakow and its surrounding municipalities. Because of its geographical location, Krakow is exposed to smog, and every action limiting the usage of carbon-based materials for heating will have a positive impact on the air quality. A biogas plant powered by municipal waste would present a viable opportunity to limit urban smog. It is also crucial that a biogas plant can store energy as it is equipped with methane tanks. Both renewable and other energy sources are still awaiting functional technical solutions that would allow for optimal energy storage.