Castilla‑La Mancha tightens biometane plant regulations

The regional government of Castilla‑La Mancha has drafted a new decree governing biometane facilities after months of pressure from local citizen groups. The text gives municipalities a binding vote on whether a plant may proceed, effectively allowing town councils to veto projects. It also imposes a minimum 2,000‑metre setback from urban areas and requires that at least 80 % of the organic waste processed originate within a 35‑kilometre radius to curb long‑distance transport. New technical standards demand sealed storage tanks and airtight systems to eliminate odours, and the decree bans waste‑truck traffic through town centres. Authorities say the measures aim to protect public health, preserve rural quality of life, and ensure a circular economy based on locally sourced residues.