Spanish communities protest biomethane plant developments

Local communities in Spain are raising concerns regarding the environmental and logistical impacts of new biomethane plants. In the region between Colmenar Viejo and Tres Cantos, a facility promoted by three multinational companies and supported by European funds is being scrutinized. While marketed as a circular economy solution, critics note that the plant does not eliminate organic waste but converts it into gas and tens of thousands of tons of digestate.

Similarly, in Don Benito, residents from Santa Amalia, Hernán Cortés, and Valdehornillos have protested a projected plant by Vegantia. Protesters argue that the facility, designed to process 212,000 tons of waste annually, lacks sufficient local raw material and will require heavy traffic from other territories. Concerns include potential odors, pests, and risks to the Vegas Altas aquifer and local biodiversity, specifically within the IBA 286 bird importance area. Residents also point out that the majority of the input material remains as digestate after gas extraction.