Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) production is a sustainable way to address methane and other toxic emissions reductions—while recycling waste. Facilities that embrace RNG production are profiting by turning waste into fuel for energy and other revenue streams, all while reducing methane emissions.
Recent news focuses on the rise in demand and funding incentives that bring new opportunities for food waste RNG production facilities.
On June 12, 2024, the U.S. government announced the “National Strategy for Reducing Food Loss and Waste and Recycling Organics,” which includes nearly $200 million in funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, supported by the EPA, USDA, and FDA. Along with recycling and composting, this funding supports food waste anaerobic digestion—a key component of RNG production. The increase in funding for the RNG industry is an opportunity to develop production facilities that can help meet these new strategy goals.
Significant Methane Capture Potential
Food waste RNG remains an underutilized revenue source in North America despite its success in Europe. Food waste decomposition in landfills is a major methane emitter, contributing up to 58% of landfill methane emissions. By diverting food waste to anaerobic digesters, methane can be captured earlier in the decomposition process, enhancing RNG production and reducing emissions.
By converting waste into RNG and nutrient-rich digestate (which doubles as fertilizer), these digesters support sustainable energy transitions, prevent net increases in atmospheric CO2, and bolster local economies by creating jobs and generating additional revenue.
Complex Testing and Compliance Requirements
As the RNG production sector continues to grow, navigating a complex regulatory environment with precision remains critical for RNG production facilities to demonstrate compliance and optimize uptime.
By engaging with experienced environmental services and testing professionals, RNG producers can ensure that their projects will meet applicable environmental regulations and permitting requirements prior to construction, as well as the facility’s ongoing compliance, reporting, sampling, and testing requirements once in operation.
Conclusion
Government initiatives and funding are driving the development of food waste RNG facilities. Leveraging food waste for RNG will generate additional economic opportunities while progressing the current Administration’s environmental goals. As North America catches up with Europe in this field, the untapped potential of food waste RNG is poised to become a significant contributor to both environmental and economic objectives.
About the Author
Tim Sperfslage, Project Director
Environmental Consulting Services, Alliance Technical Group
With a strong background in air permitting and compliance across multiple industries, Tim brings more than 15 years of experience in air quality to his client’s environmental projects. Supporting clients with regulatory and technical air quality knowledge, Tim proficiently manages complex permitting projects with cross-discipline teams, conducting technical audits, and directing environmental compliance projects.
Contact Alliance Technical Group for expert support in compliance and operational efficiency—designed to simplify RNG challenges and deliver timely and precise results.
More About RNG:
Harnessing Renewable Natural Gas: A Sustainable Path to Climate Goals and Methane Reduction
Tackling the Challenges of RNG Testing, Together