Transforming arable and dairy farming systems by adopting anaerobic digestion and recirculating aquaculture systems to address the demand for sustainable profitability, environment and diets
Journal
Cogent Food & Agriculture
Date Issued
November 7, 2025
DOI
10.1080/23311932.2025.2579888
Abstract
UK agricultural systems face pressures from environmental targets, policy reform, and
market volatility, requiring innovative strategies for resilience and sustainability. This
study examines integrating anaerobic digestors (ad, 500 kW) and recirculating
aquaculture systems (RaS, 157 m³/unit) in arable and dairy farms. Using a 2022 farm
data-based linear programming model, we evaluate the economic viability of producing
renewable energy and warm-water prawns alongside traditional outputs. Results show
significant profit gains: ad alone boosts net Margins by 24% in arable farms, while
combined with RaS can increase margins by up to 56%. For dairy, ad effects are
modest (5%), but RaS can improve margins by 70%, often replacing ad due to lower
returns. These technologies recycle nutrients from digestate and waste, supporting
circular economy goals. ad–RaS synergies maximise energy and heat recovery, with
RaS enabling local seafood that reduces import dependence, carbon leakage, and
ecological damage from overseas shrimp farming. despite high capital costs, complexity,
and energy price sensitivity, findings highlight ad and RaS’s potential for sustainable
diversification, align with UK net-zero and biodiversity goals, and improve resource
efficiency, lower emissions, and conserve land. We conclude that integrated ad and
RaS are viable paths to enhance farm resilience and deliver economic, environmental,
and dietary benefits amid agricultural transition.
market volatility, requiring innovative strategies for resilience and sustainability. This
study examines integrating anaerobic digestors (ad, 500 kW) and recirculating
aquaculture systems (RaS, 157 m³/unit) in arable and dairy farms. Using a 2022 farm
data-based linear programming model, we evaluate the economic viability of producing
renewable energy and warm-water prawns alongside traditional outputs. Results show
significant profit gains: ad alone boosts net Margins by 24% in arable farms, while
combined with RaS can increase margins by up to 56%. For dairy, ad effects are
modest (5%), but RaS can improve margins by 70%, often replacing ad due to lower
returns. These technologies recycle nutrients from digestate and waste, supporting
circular economy goals. ad–RaS synergies maximise energy and heat recovery, with
RaS enabling local seafood that reduces import dependence, carbon leakage, and
ecological damage from overseas shrimp farming. despite high capital costs, complexity,
and energy price sensitivity, findings highlight ad and RaS’s potential for sustainable
diversification, align with UK net-zero and biodiversity goals, and improve resource
efficiency, lower emissions, and conserve land. We conclude that integrated ad and
RaS are viable paths to enhance farm resilience and deliver economic, environmental,
and dietary benefits amid agricultural transition.
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