Ray Nattrass discusses the history and future of anaerobic digestion. Anaerobic digestion has been used since the 1800s but saw setbacks due to cheaper fossil fuels. Key drivers now include high energy prices, climate change, and government incentives. However, feedstock availability is shrinking and costs are rising. New opportunities exist to produce higher value chemicals and fuels through diversification and new technologies, but managing technology risk is important for success. Proper design, implementation, and handover are needed to ensure reliable plant operations over the long term.