New perspectives in anaerobic digestion

The IWA specialised group on anaerobic digestion (AD) is one of the oldest working groups of the former IAWQ organisation. Despite the fact that anaer obic technology dates back more than 100 years, the technology is still und er development, adapting novel treatment systems to the modern requirements . In fact, most advances were achieved during the last three decades, when high-rate reactor systems were developed and a profound insight was obtaine d in the microbiology of the anaerobic communities. This insight led to a b etter understanding of anaerobic treatment and, subsequently, to a broader application potential. The present "state-of-the-art" paper, which has been written by members of the AD management committee, reflects the latest achievements and sets futu re lines for further development.