Thorough research into a potential site for an anaerobic digestion (AD) plant can save the industry from wasting money, a waste management professional has said.

Stuart Hayward-Higham, head of business development at SITA UK said that without forward planning, companies could find there is no demand for heat in the local area or that they are developing a plant in a nitrate restricted zone - which means that they struggle to find enough land on which digestate could be spread.

He also said that without careful consideration of the input and technology used, companies could be developing a digestate which might only be fit for landfill.

Mr Hayward-Higham is set to speak in more detail on the subject at a one-day conference on 16 October organised by the Environmental Services Association to explore the role of AD in managing organic waste.

Keen interest also surrounds the keynote speech at the meeting which will be presented by recycling and waste minister Joan Ruddock.

The ESA's conference has been organised in the wake of the Waste Strategy 2007, which encourages local authorities and business to consider using anaerobic digestion.

The event will also provide an opportunity to hear about and discuss the key political, technical and economic issues relating to the adoption of anaerobic digestion in the municipal waste sector.

Mr Hayward-Higham has suggested that AD facilities should be built with nearby access to farming land with nutrient requirements, damaged land needing improvement or near a Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) facility to minimise transport and environmental costs.

He explained: "Location is so important that without identifying your heat sink at an initial stage, you should assume zero revenue. The heat market is relatively immature and prices are very volatile by location, user and need."

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The conference intends to assist local authorities and service providers who may be considering using AD, and will also update attendees on current trends in managing organic waste and the UK's progress towards meeting the Landfill Directive.

Steve Whittaker, contract services manager for Mid Bedfordshire district council will also be speaking on experience of collecting food waste from households for AD processing as part of the WRAP food waste trials. (see letsrecycle.com story)