Biogas offers an exciting opportunity for the UK’s agricultural sector to transition toward sustainability. A recent British study explores the potential of mixed-model farms — those that integrate crops and livestock — to adopt biogas systems, which convert organic waste into renewable energy. This approach not only reduces greenhouse gas emissions but also creates a circular system that benefits farmers and communities alike.
Why Biogas?
The UK’s agricultural sector is responsible for approximately 10% of national greenhouse gas emissions, with methane from livestock and nitrous oxide from fertilisers as significant contributors. Biogas systems could help address these issues by:
- Capturing Methane: Organic waste from livestock is processed in anaerobic digesters to produce biogas, preventing methane from escaping into the atmosphere.
- Reducing Waste: Leftover digestate — a nutrient-rich byproduct — can replace synthetic fertilisers, improving soil health and lowering costs.
Key Findings
- Farm-Level Benefits:
- On mixed-model farms, biogas systems create synergies between crop production and livestock, maximising resource use.
- Biogas plants reduce reliance on external inputs, such as fertilisers and energy, making farms more self-sufficient.
- Economic Viability:
- While initial investment costs remain high, the long-term savings from energy generation and fertiliser replacement improve profitability.
- Policies like the UK’s Green Gas Support Scheme could further incentivise adoption by providing subsidies for renewable gas production.
- Challenges to Overcome:
- A lack of infrastructure for collecting and processing organic waste limits biogas adoption.
- Training and support for farmers are essential to make biogas systems accessible and effective.
Great Potential
The study highlights the importance of local-level solutions and targeted policies to make biogas a key part of the UK’s sustainable energy landscape. With commitment and investment, British farms could become not just food producers but renewable energy hubs. The example farm could produce over 40kW and reduce carbon emissions by over 20K kg CO2/year.
Now Read
Denmarks Biogas Revolution: From Farms to Big Business
Source
Sustainable Agriculture: Assessing the Feasibility of Biogas Derived Energy Generation on a UK mixed-model farm, Energy Reports, 2025-06
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