Document Type
Policy Brief
Publication Date
2023
Abstract
West Virginia University (WVU) should construct an anaerobic digester to dispose of the approximately 175 tons of food waste generated each year. Today, this waste is transported to a landfill 50 miles away, impacting the environment in a way that is not consistent with WVU’s sustainability policy. A digester, which uses bacteria to turn food waste into biogas, can reduce WVU’s greenhouse gas emissions and other environmental impacts. In addition, faculty can use the digester to conduct research and teach sustainable practices that can be used throughout the state once students graduate. Further, prospective students often review a university’s sustainability ranking in deciding where they will attend. WVU’s sustainability policy states “WVU will promote the use of sound sustainable principles and practices through learning, teaching, research, and facilities management from both an educational and operational perspective.” Disposing of WVU’s food waste using a digester instead of transporting it to a landfall will help WVU reach its sustainability goals.
Recommended Citation
Omer, Kevin, "Construct an Anaerobic Digester to Treat West Virginia University’s Food Waste" (2023). Bridge Initiative for Science and Technology Policy, Leadership, and Communications. 3.
https://researchrepository.wvu.edu/bridge_initiative/3