The Capital Regional District is ready to embark on a first-of-its-kind system in Canada, converting biosolids from its wastewater treatment system into biochar – a beneficial substance for soil and carbon capture.
Australian engineering company Pyrocal PTY Ltd. is the preferred proponent to integrate innovative technology for the residuals treatment facility at Hartland Landfill to process class A biosolids, the CRD announced Thursday (June 26).
“From an Australian first to a Canadian first, we’re thrilled to bring our technology to the CRD region,” Pyrocal CEO Barry Croker said. “This project marks a major milestone not just for the CRD and Pyrocal, but for biosolids innovation in North America. We’re proud to support the CRD’s forward-thinking approach to biosolids management, delivering real and lasting environmental and economic benefits to Vancouver Island and demonstrating our ability to deliver impactful solutions across borders.”
Pyrocal’s continuous carbonisation technology system converts biosolids and other organic materials into biochar, a charcoal-like substance with various benefits, including improving soil through moisture and nutrient retention.
The production of biochar is expected to not only offset the technology’s operating greenhouse gas emissions but also remove additional carbon from the atmosphere, providing a pathway for permanent carbon capture and storage.
“The advanced technology and infrastructure that Pyrocal provides will not only enhance our biosolids management capabilities but also contribute to the long-term environmental benefits for our community,” board chair Cliff McNeil-Smith said in a news release.
The long-term strategy outlines a sustainable approach to managing biosolids produced within the region and was confirmed in March to fulfill obligations set out in the Core Area Liquid Waste Management Plan. It includes the development of innovative gasification or pyrolysis technology as an additional processing step to turn biosolids into biochar.
Market options for biochar will be explored to understand the potential revenue-generating opportunities of this project.
“We are proud to lead the country with this innovative solution,” said Chris Coleman, chair of the Core Area Liquid Waste Management Committee. “This state-of-the-art technology will set a new standard for managing liquid waste in an environmentally friendly and efficient manner.”
The costs of biochar production using Pyrocal’s technology are expected to be competitive with the CRD’s current out-of-region management options. The board will see a refined financial analysis, operations plan, project agreement and proposed approach to seek elector approval for financing before seeking direction to commit to the full project costs.
Local consultation will be part of the public engagement process for the proposed expansion of the residuals treatment facility. The project will follow the required provincial and local regulatory approvals for authorization of air emissions under the Environmental Management Act, anticipated to take up to two years, the CRD said.
Learn more online at www.crd.ca.
