The aim of the work was to compare two different biological methods for hydrogen production: fermentative and photosynthetic based upon the modality of batch cultures. For testing of fermentative bio-hydrogen production four mixed cultures representing anaerobic microorganisms (dominant strain Clostridium) were selected. The kinetic parameters on the intensity of bio-hydrogen production were established. The efficiency coefficient of transformation ranged from 1.65 mol H-2/mol glucose in the pectin culture up to 2.45 in the mixed culture. The bio-hydrogen concentration never exceeded 30%. The carbon dioxide was produced in a ratio of CO2 to H-2 (0.5-0.67)/1. The testing of green algae proved that the most effective was the algae species Scenedesmus. High bio-hydrogen purity was analytically verified. The fermentative method of H-2 production is more efficient; it does not need light, has a longer efficiency of one charge and enables effective use of different biological wastes. (C) 2007 International Association for Hydrogen Energy. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.