Achieving Waste & Emissions Reduction Goals on University of Richmond Campus: The Biodigester Approach

This project proposes the installation of a small-scale anaerobic digester (biodigester). This is a reactor that breaks down biodegradable organic waste producing biogas. Food waste is considered one of the most efficient for producing biogas of typical biodigester feedstocks (Poschl, 2010). The UR Dining Hall produces 614 lbs of food waste per day to be used as feedstock, with landscaping scraps available for additional feed. The University boiler plant is capable of using biogas for heat production, making the plant a suitable destination for the digester\u27s waste output. The digester may allow for waste diversion and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reductions while also saving money on transportation and natural gas

Waste Reduction at the University of Richmond: Recommendations for a Greener, Cleaner Campus

Connecting with the University of Richmond goals of stewardship and academic achievement both in and outside the classroom, we have constructed a plan for making the University campus more sustainable. By applying knowledge acquired throughout our Environmental Studies education, and understanding its connection to global issues, we hope to make a positive, lasting impact on our campus community. In the 2017 Strategic Plan, the University describes a vision of modelling the way that colleges and universities can effectively meet the challenges of our time (UR Strategic Plan, 2017). Although there is a broad range of environmental issues that can be addressed by universities, we focus on a solution to address food waste on the University of Richmond campus. Paper prepared for the Environmental Studies Senior Seminar/Geography Capstone. Faculty Advisor: Dr. David Salisbur