What is the primary benefit of using an anaerobic digester?

The primary benefit of using an anaerobic digester lies in its ability to generate biogas while simultaneously treating organic waste. Anaerobic digestion is a process that occurs in the absence of oxygen, where microorganisms break down biodegradable material, such as food waste, agricultural waste, or sewage sludge. This process results in the production of biogas, which is primarily composed of methane and carbon dioxide.

The generation of biogas is significant because it can be harnessed as a renewable source of energy, which can be used for heating, electricity generation, or as a vehicle fuel. Additionally, the digestate produced from the process can be utilized as a nutrient-rich fertilizer, contributing to sustainable agricultural practices.

Moreover, while pathogens are often reduced during the digestion process, the primary focus and promise of anaerobic digestion is not solely on pathogen elimination but rather the effective treatment of organic waste and the associated energy recovery. Hence, option C precisely encapsulates the core advantages of anaerobic digesters in waste management and energy production systems.