South East Water is involved in a new project, which will transform leftover biosolids into reusable products for farmers.
Developed by RMIT University, the innovative technology uses a process called pyrolysis. This process uses high temperatures to melt microplastics in biosolids to create biochar.
Biochar is a form of charcoal which can be used by farmers to improve the health of soil.
Currently around 30 per cent of the worlds biosolid resource is stockpiled in landfill, increasing the amount of methane gas which is exposed into the atmosphere.
South East Water in partnership with RMIT University will help to deliver the project. The technology is currently being trialled at the Melton Recycled Water Plant in Melbourne.
Steve McGhie MP, Member for Melton representing Acting Minister for Water Richard Wynne, said the project will help to create a sustainable outcome for products.
“This collaboration will enable the water industry to find alternative markets for biosolids, reducing waste going to landfill and allowing 100 per cent of products to be reused or recycled,” Wynne said.
“By reusing and adding value to biosolids, we recover local resources, reduce landfill and create renewable energy to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions.”
The next stage of the trial will involve scaling up the technology within a dedicated unit at a recycling plant over a longer period of time.
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