Biowaste-to-bioenergy using biological methods – A mini-review

Abstract The continued production of waste is creating management problems. The use of traditional waste management methods, such as incineration and landfill, releases gases that may cause global warming. Energy demand is also increasing rapidly owing to the rapid increase in population and industrialization. To meet this ever-increasing demand, access to clean and green energy is essential for the sustainable development of human society. These two challenges, if managed scientifically using biowaste to bioenergy (BtB) technology, can provide solutions for one another. In this article, we reviewed the strategies for and status of BtB technology (anaerobic digestion, transesterification, and microbial fuel cells) used to convert various biowastes (forest and agriculture residue, animal wastes, and municipal wastes) into bioenergy (biogas, biodiesel, bioalcohol, and bioelectricity). The participation of researchers, scientists, government agencies, and stakeholders is needed to increase the feasibility of these technologies.