Azerbaijan plans to build anaerobic digestion plants near municipal solid-waste landfills by 2035, allowing organic material to be converted into biogas.
The projects are part of Azerbaijan’s approved Long-Term Low-Carbon Development Strategy, which sets out the country’s path toward net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2060.
Organic Waste Will Be Converted Into Biogas
Anaerobic digestion breaks down organic waste without oxygen, producing biogas that can be used as a renewable energy source. The technology can also reduce methane emissions from organic waste deposited at landfills.
The strategy calls for the complete processing of collected organic waste, supported by expanded collection and sorting systems. Published materials do not yet specify how many plants will be built, their capacity, their locations or the expected cost.
Waste Sector Emitted 4.9 Million Tons of CO2 Equivalent
Azerbaijan’s waste-management sector produced about 4.9 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent in 2022, according to the strategy. Cutting methane emissions and expanding waste sorting are among the main priorities.
By 2060, the government aims to achieve 100% coverage for solid-waste collection and wastewater activities. Existing wastewater-treatment infrastructure would also be upgraded, while new treatment centers using anaerobic processes would capture methane for energy use.
The 2035 and 2060 dates are policy targets rather than completed construction plans. Individual projects will still require technical specifications, financing, environmental review and implementation decisions.
Source: Vesti Baku. The underlying strategy is available through the UNFCCC.