Tuesday, 20 February 2024

Melton biochar trial

Steve McGHIE (Melton) (13:40): The Allan Labor government is committed to Victoria’s net zero emissions target by 2045. That is why we are developing Australia’s first novel pyrolysis technology, developed here in Victoria, to reduce PFAS and microplastics in biosolids to create biochar. This generates beneficial re-use opportunities for both soil and non-soil applications, and following a successful first trial in 2021, 100 per cent of PFAS was eliminated. South East Water, RMIT University, Intelligent Water Networks and Greater Western Water have partnered again for the second trial. The second trial aims to achieve these outstanding results once again, where these results can be replicated, and it will present a great opportunity for Victoria’s water and agricultural industries.

An Australian-built unit will be installed at the Melton water recycling plant for the second trial. This unit will process food and garden organics as well as blended feedstock with biosolids to create functionalised biochar. This creates dual benefits in diverting organics from landfill whilst also delivering higher nutrient and carbon values. Key issues that both the water and the waste industries face are PFAS and microplastics and contaminants in wastewater diverting waste from landfill. Pyrolysis technology is a practical solution to these environmental challenges. It is fantastic that this project is going on in the Melton electorate, and the Melton community should be so proud that this is happening in their own backyard to get rid of things like PFAS and microplastics.