Simply put, it is a process by which organic materials are degraded by micro-organisms. Bacterial fermentation occurs, and organic matter is broken down in the absence of dissolved oxygen. This produces a valuable energy-producing biogas plus a clean effluent.

Anaerobic digestion has been utilized for years in such applications as septic tanks and even municipal waste treatment. It is only recently, however, that the technology has progressed to be of significant value to companies and organizations involved in food processing, agriculture, animal farming and other areas.