Abstract:
Biogas production is a process that converts organic waste into renewable energy, primarily methane through anaerobic digestion. This study explores the practices, opportunities, and challenges of biogas production in the rural of Ambo District, Ethiopia. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research surveyed 368 households 42 adopters and 326 non-adopters from five kebeles. The results indicate that biogas adopters scored significantly higher than non-adopters in areas like training access (mean 3.81 vs. 2.42, p=0.004), awareness campaigns (4.14 vs. 2.46, p=0.001), and organic waste utilization (4.17 vs. 2.44, p=0.009). Gender equity also improved, as women spent less time gathering firewood (4.10 vs 3.16). Biogas adopters reported significantly higher benefits in biogas slurry improves soil fertility and agricultural productivity (mean 4.26 vs 3.21), health improvement (mean 4.38 vs 3.17), and environmental sustainability (mean = 4.07 vs 2.98). Biogas adopters face major challenges including difficulty accessing spare parts (mean = 3.95), limited financial support (mean = 3.69), and water scarcity (mean = 3.60), while non-adopters cite lack of awareness (mean = 4.02), high installation costs (mean = 3.71), and technician shortages (mean = 3.86) as key barriers. Establishing local training centers and maintenance hubs is essential to address technical gaps. Coordinated awareness campaigns involving government bodies, NGOs, and community stakeholders are also recommended to overcome socio-cultural barriers. Lastly, the study calls for future research examine how biogas affects household finances and environmental sustainability over the long run in order to improve these initiatives
