ADBA Scottish Conference 2025

Farmers, food producers, and processors are central to Scotland’s drive towards a more sustainable future. Their role is seen as crucial to delivering food security whilst also protecting nature and tackling climate change through the principles of circular.

Under plans to become a Good Food Nation, the Scottish Parliament is developing a system to support sustainable and regenerative farming. It will incentivise adaptation to climate challenges and the expansion of organic farming, to improve soil health, achieve biodiversity net gain, and enhance nutrient cycling whilst playing a key role in reducing emissions.

Biogas has a clear role to play in supporting that mission – reducing input costs and emissions by turning organic farm wastes into green electricity and renewable natural fertiliser. Through efficient and sustainable land management, coupled with integrated waste and water management systems, this clean energy solution helps deliver multiple Sustainable Development Goals. Increasingly, commodities flowing from this means of production attract a green premium.

The integration of anaerobic digestion into agricultural practices creates a virtuous cycle that enhances biodiversity. By managing farm wastes through AD systems, farmers can reduce nutrient runoff into waterways, protecting aquatic ecosystems. The digestate produced as a result of AD’s natural process, serves as a sustainable biofertiliser that improves soil structure and supports beneficial soil microorganisms, creating healthier habitats for native flora and fauna. This holistic approach to farm management helps create wildlife corridors and protect sensitive ecosystems whilst maintaining productive agricultural land.

Anaerobic digestion serves as a powerful equaliser in agricultural development. As an established technology, it can be implemented at any scale – from micro to industrial – making it particularly valuable for rural communities. It provides a three-fold benefit: sustainable fertiliser production, clean energy generation, and effective waste management tools, supporting the development of resilient agricultural systems across diverse settings.

At the ADBA Scottish National Conference, farmers, food producers and processors can gain valuable insight into the latest developments in the policy and regulatory landscape covering plans for a just transition in support of climate energy and food security.