AD benefits highlighted in Scottish Parliament debate

AD benefits highlighted in Scottish Parliament debate

On 6 January 2026, the Scottish Parliament held a debate on the critical role of anaerobic digestion (AD) and biogas in the nation’s journey to net zero. During a Members’ Business Debate, MSPs debated a motion tabled and championed by Emma Harper that highlighted the environmental, economic, and rural benefits of the AD sector.

The discussion showed the cross-party recognition of AD’s contribution to sustainable energy generation, organic waste management, and rural job creation, and called for stronger policy support to unlock its full potential.

MSPs, including Maurice Golden and Cabinet Secretary for Climate Action and Energy Gillian Martin, highlighted how biogas technology not only diversifies Scotland’s energy mix but also bolsters energy security and supports farmers and rural communities through additional income streams and circular economy benefits.

The motion explicitly welcomed the work of ADBA in advocating for the sector and urged the Scottish Government to consider a dedicated biogas champion role to drive cross-government collaboration.

You can watch the debate HERE

The motion submitted by Emma Harper S6M-19318

That the Parliament recognises what it sees as the significant contribution of anaerobic digestion (AD) and biogas to Scotland’s transition to net zero; welcomes the work of the Anaerobic Digestion and Bioresources Association (ADBA) to research, develop and promote the AD industry across Scotland, including the economically prominent dairy farming sector in the south west of Scotland; notes that AD technology supports the circular economy by converting organic and residue wastes and by-products into renewable energy and non-synthetic nutrient-rich digestate fertiliser; highlights what it sees as the role of biogas in diversifying energy sources and enhancing energy security, including the potential for widening delivery for non-gas grid rural communities; understands that the AD sector provides direct support to farmers and rural communities through sustainable waste management, value for cover and break crops, additional income streams and skilled job creation; believes that further investment and policy support for AD and biogas will play a key role in meeting Scotland’s climate targets, boosting the rural economy and reducing reliance on fossil fuels, and notes the calls on the Scottish Government to consider creating a biogas champion position to oversee interdepartmental and cross-portfolio collaboration to ensure the success of the AD sector for the future.

HEAR MORE AT THE ADBA SCOTTISH CONFERENCE 2026 IN EDINBURGH ON 4 MARCH