What is an Anaerobic Decomposition?

Anaerobic decomposition occurs naturally in wetlands, landfills, and sediment layers, and is also used in engineered systems like anaerobic digesters. Without oxygen, specialized bacteria break down organic matter more slowly than in aerobic conditions. This process generates biogas, a renewable energy source, and digestate, which can be used as fertilizer. Anaerobic decomposition is important in waste management for reducing landfill volume, controlling odors, and recovering energy from organic waste streams.