WASTE THAT GENERATES ENERGY – THE ENERGETIC RECOVERY OF ORGANIC MATTER THROUGH BIODIGESTION IN THE CONTEXT OF THE ENERGY TRANSITION ACCELERATION PROGRAM (PATEN) AND NEW PATHWAYS FOR SUSTAINABILITY IN BRAZIL

Abstract

The growing concern with the climate crisis and the need to diversify Brazil’s energy matrix have driven new strategies focused on sustainability and the rational use of natural resources. In this context, the energy recovery of organic waste emerges as a concrete alternative to reduce emissions, promote a circular economy, and strengthen national energy security. The Energy Transition Acceleration Program (PATEN), recently launched by the Federal Government, establishes guidelines and incentives for projects that integrate technological innovation, sustainability, and the generation of clean energy from renewable sources. Among these, biodigestion stands out as a promising technology capable of transforming agro-industrial, urban, and rural waste into biogas and biofertilizers, reducing environmental impacts and adding economic value to materials previously discarded. The objective of this article is to critically analyze the potential of energy recovery from organics through biodigestion within the context of PATEN, highlighting its contributions to Brazil’s energy transition and sustainable development. The guiding research question is: how can the biodigestion of organic waste, supported by PATEN’s guidelines, be consolidated as a strategic axis for sustainability and Brazilian energy sovereignty? Theoretically, the study draws on the works of Wellinger (2013), Gerardi (2003), Holm-Nielsen (2016), Stryi-Hipp (2016), Lovins (2011), Rifkin (2000; 2019), Sachs (2002; 2008; 2009), Beck (1992; 2001; 2010), Goldemberg and Lucon (2007), Harvey (2005; 2006; 2011), Silva and Arbilla (2022), Gadotti (2000; 2008; 2012), Leff (2001; 2006; 2010), Brown (2009), Meadows (2004), Daly (1991; 1996), Latouche (2009), Veiga (2010; 2015), Acselrad (2004; 2010), Lovins and Cohen (2018), and Deublein and Steinhauser (2008), among others. The research is qualitative (Minayo, 2007), descriptive and bibliographical (Gil, 2008), and follows a comprehensive analytical approach (Weber, 1949). The results demonstrate that biodigestion, integrated with PATEN’s directives, constitutes one of the most promising energy transition strategies in Brazil, combining technological innovation, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability. The study concludes that the energy use of organic waste strengthens national energy sovereignty, reduces emissions, and fosters a circular economy. Moreover, PATEN proves essential for enabling the expansion of biodigestion across multiple scales, providing technical, financial, and regulatory support. Thus, the research reveals that the PATEN–biodigestion nexus consolidates a new development paradigm based on the synergy between clean energy, waste management, and environmental justice.