NEW RE-USABLE WASTE TECHNOLOGY FOR FARMERS

The Victorian Government is transforming waste management with a new project transforming leftover biosolids headed for landfill into reusable products for our farmers.

Steve McGhie MP, representing Acting Minister for Water Richard Wynne, toured Greater Western Water’s Melton Recycled Water Plant which is trailing the new technology.

This new technology is the first of its kind in Australia and uses high temperatures to destroy pathogens and micro plastics in biosolids creating biochar. The unique pyrolysis technology transforms biosolids into a product which can be recycled and reused.

This mean farmers, and the wider agriculture industry, can reuse 100% of the product safely.

This innovative technology, developed by RMIT University, will make biosolids management more environmentally sustainable and cost effective. It will also help reduce carbon emissions for both the water and agriculture industries and help contribute towards the renewable energy target.

Long term, technology like this has the potential to eliminate the landfill waste across the water industry.

Farmers, and agriculture industry, commonly use biosolids as fertiliser and soil amendment. Currently around 30% of the world’s biosolids resource is stockpiled or sent to landfill, creating an environmental challenge.

The Biosolids to Biochar project is being delivered in partnership with RMIT University, Intelligent Water Networks, South East Water and Greater Western Water.

The next stage of the trial is to scale up the technology and have a unit in place at a water recycling plant over a longer period of time.

Quotes attributable to Steve McGhie MP, Member for Melton

“This collaboration will enable the water industry to find alternative markets for biosolids, reducing waste going to landfill and allowing 100% of products to be reused or recycled.”

“By creating a safe product with a steady supply stream, we’re also providing our farmers and the wider agriculture industry a product which is completely natural and can improve soil health and fertility. This project is incredibly exciting for both industries and I can’t wait to see the outcome of the trial”.

“This project is an excellent example of like-minded organisations working together with a shared commitment to sustainable solutions. By reusing and adding value to biosolids, we recover local resources, reduce landfill and create renewable energy to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions.”