The course provides a solid yet practice-oriented introduction to the biological utilization of residual materials within the context of a sustainable circular economy. Starting from the fundamentals of biology and photosynthesis, it first examines the ”food vs. fuel” debate in order to critically assess conflicts between food production and bioenergetic use. Subsequently, key processes of biological waste treatment are covered, including composting, biogas production, and dark fermentation. These processes are considered not only from a technological perspective, but particularly from the viewpoint of anaerobic microbiomes, which are understood as the driving force behind material transformations. An introduction to microbiomes and their analysis—from taxonomic profiling to functional approaches such as proteomics—enables a deeper understanding of microbial communities and their performance. Building on this, central metabolic processes such as fermentation and methanogenesis are examined in detail and placed in the context of technical applications. In addition, innovative and less established approaches—such as the use of insects, bioleaching, remediation strategies, and novel materials and systems (e.g., SLMs)—are introduced. The course combines current research with application-oriented knowledge and offers an interdisciplinary perspective on biological transformation processes, with the aim of developing sustainable and creative solutions for future resource utilization.

Learning outcomes

Students are introduced to ecologically and economically viable alternatives to conventional waste treatment, with integrated and system-oriented solutions at the core. Particular emphasis is placed on anaerobic microbiomes and their central role in biological conversion processes such as anaerobic digestion, composting, and other innovative approaches to residual waste valorization. Building on microbiological and biochemical fundamentals, functional principles, process dynamics, and efficiencies are analyzed and transferred to real-world applications. In addition to established technologies, current research approaches, international developments, and novel process combinations—including contributions from the instructor’s own research—are addressed. The aim is to develop an in-depth understanding of the material and energy recovery of residuals within the context of a sustainable circular economy, and to foster the ability to independently design system-oriented solutions. An interactive teaching format forms the didactic core: during the sessions, students continuously work on tasks whose results contribute to the overall assessment. This supports an active learning process that promotes analytical thinking, applied competence, and scientific discussion.

Assessment

Assessment in this module follows a continuous, dialogue-based oral approach. Students are asked to demonstrate their understanding of the course content by answering subject-specific questions and by formulating questions for their peers. The assessment takes place regularly throughout the semester and aims to evaluate subject-specific knowledge, understanding, and the ability to engage in academic discussion. oral assessment generally after every second lecture approximately 15–20 minutes per assessment session 1–2 questions per student approximately every two weeks approximately 10 assessed questions per student over the semester 1 point for each successfully completed question assessment of answers based on subject-specific correctness and demonstrated understanding assessment of student-formulated questions based on scientific relevance, clarity, and appropriateness All assessed questions/tasks are weighted equally. The overall assessment result is calculated based on the proportion of points achieved out of the total number of points available (100%). comparable number and level of assessment opportunities for all students

Literature (3)

Kranert M. Einführung in die Kreislaufwirtschaft, Springer Vieweg Wiesbaden, 2017, https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-8348-2257-4
Bischofsberger, Dichtl, Rosenwinkel, Seyfried, Böhnke. Anaerobtechnik. Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2005, ISBN: 3-540-06850-3
Further literature will be announced during the course

Modules

Biological Methods for Biomass and Waste Treatment

Contents

Learning outcomes

Assessment