Cornell Expands Biodigester Research Project

By Blake Jackson

Cornell University is expanding its Living Lab sustainability program with a new biodigester project designed to support renewable energy research, farmer education, and environmental innovation. The biodigester system will be installed this summer at the Cornell College of Veterinary Medicine Teaching Dairy near Ithaca, New York.

The project includes two 10,000-gallon tanks that will process cow manure and food waste from campus facilities. Microbes inside the sealed tanks will convert the waste into biogas and nutrient-rich digestion through anaerobic digestion. Biogas, made from methane and carbon dioxide, will provide renewable energy for the dairy and support research into carbon capture and biofuel development.

“This is such a great opportunity for research, education and extension,” said Lauren Ray. “It has this element of practicality, because it really will supply energy to the university, but at the same time it’s a platform for learning and even playing, as well as providing hands-on demonstrations for farmers and students.”

Researchers said the smaller system will allow scientists to study real-world applications of waste conversion technologies. Jefferson Tester explained the value of operating a smaller campus system for testing innovative technologies.

“Whatever we do on a laboratory- or bench-scale, to translate it to real-life, you want to validate it in the field,” Tester said.

The project received support from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority and aims to provide research opportunities for smaller dairy farms across New York. Researchers will study methane conversion, nutrient recycling, biofuel production, and sustainable waste management practices.

Daryl Nydam said the project strengthens Cornell’s statewide partnerships with dairy farms and agricultural operations.

The biodigester will also support educational programs and public training opportunities for farmers, engineers, developers, and students. Cornell researchers believe the project can help improve sustainability while creating practical solutions for waste recycling and renewable energy production.

Photo Credit: cornell-university