Optimizing biogas production through anaerobic digestion: transforming food waste and agricultural residues into renewable energy within a circular economy paradigm

The world population’s rapid growth has led to a surge in solid waste production, posing complex waste management challenges. This study explores the use of food waste for biogas production through anaerobic digestion, offering a sustainable solution. Anaerobic bacterial consortia were utilized to produce biogas from vegetable waste, banana peels, and cow dung. Proximate analysis revealed that a solid concentration exceeding 15% is crucial for effective anaerobic digestion. pH levels shifted from 4.2 to 6.9 post-digestion, indicating successful fermentation by methanogenic bacteria. Co-digestion of cattle dung with food waste yielded the highest cumulative biogas output of 1732 ml, surpassing mono-digestion at 1035 ml. Validation through a flame test confirmed biogas’s viability as a renewable energy source. Bacterial isolation highlighted their role in enhancing biogas output and process stability. Life cycle assessment (LCA) emphasized the environmental benefits of anaerobic digestion–based biogas production, underscoring its potential for sustainable waste management and bioenergy generation.