University Innovation: UABCS Students Transform Organic Waste into Clean Energy with Biodigesters

The Autonomous University of Baja California Sur (UABCS) is at the forefront of the circular economy thanks to the drive of its students, who have begun to implement and promote the use of biodigesters to transform organic waste into usable energy. In 2026, what started as an academic project in the fields of agronomy and environmental sciences has evolved into a tangible solution to reduce the carbon footprint of the campus and the state's rural communities, proving that smart waste management is key to sustainability.

A biodigester is essentially a closed container where organic matter—such as food scraps or manure—decomposes in the absence of oxygen through the action of bacteria. This process generates biogas, a methane-rich mixture that can be used directly for cooking or heating water, and a liquid by-product called "biol," which functions as a high-quality organic fertilizer. For a state like Baja California Sur, where solid waste management is a constant challenge, this technology offers an economical and ecological alternative for families and small producers.

The project led by the "Gatos Salvajes" (Wildcats) seeks not only energy generation but also a change in mindset. Through workshops and functional models within the university, students demonstrate how an environmental problem (the accumulation of organic waste) can turn into direct savings on LP gas consumption. With the support of researchers and links to productive sectors, UABCS reaffirms its role as the innovation engine the state needs to face the climatic and energy challenges of this century.