Australian-first innovation at the Melton Recycled Water Plant has delivered a project that transforms waste bio solids and organic materials into reusable products.  

Member for Melton Steve McGhie today visited Greater Western Water’s Melton Recycled Water Plant, which is home to the latest trial of Australian-first technology as part of the $1 million Biosolids to Biochar project (Phase 2).

The project features technology that uses high-temperature pyrolysis to transform waste biosolids into biochar.

Biosolids are the left over organic material which is produced after sewage treatment. Biochar is a product that can be used for soil applications such as improving soil health and fertility and non-soil applications such as advanced carbon materials.

This is the second phase of the trials which were successfully undertaken in 2021, they removed pathogens, contaminants, and microplastics from the biochar.

The trials also provide a potential solution to the water industry’s challenge of biosolids disposal and presents a significant opportunity to remove carbon from the atmosphere and achieve net-zero emissions.

The Biosolids to Biochar project is being delivered in partnership with RMIT University, Intelligent Water Networks, South-East Water, Greater Western Water and Barwon Water with a $100,000 investment by the Victorian Government.  

Quotes attributable to Member for Melton Steve McGhie

“This project demonstrates how the water industry and science can work together to deliver great outcomes for both our environment and our economy.”

“Biochar is an exciting product that has great potential for both our farmers and our construction industries, and I’m excited to see the outcomes of the trial.” 

Quote attributable to South East Water General Manager Research Innovation and Commercialisation Daniel Sullivan 

“We believe that this technology has the potential to transform byproducts of the wastewater process into a valuable resource while helping us meet our net zero pledge.”