Skip to main content

Photo Friday: Using waste instead of chopping firewood

The Meru GK Prison is a government institution in Kenya’s eastern province in Meru County.  Spanning a 15 hectare area, this prison houses more than 1200 inmates and employs approximately 300 staff.

This article was published in Scientific American’s former blog network and reflects the views of the author, not necessarily those of Scientific American



On supporting science journalism

If you're enjoying this article, consider supporting our award-winning journalism by subscribing. By purchasing a subscription you are helping to ensure the future of impactful stories about the discoveries and ideas shaping our world today.


The Meru GK Prison is a government institution in Kenya’s eastern province in Meru County. Spanning a 15 hectare area, this prison houses more than 1200 inmates and employs approximately 300 staff. This anaerobic digestor produces methane from the facility’s waste streams, which is then used as a source of energy in the prison’s kitchens. Previously, this energy demand was supplied using firewood and all waste was treated via the local wastewater treatment plant.

Photo Credit: Photo taken 2009 by Sustainable sanitation and used via Creative Commons licensing.