7 October 2009

In a proposal that will see household waste converted into valuable resources, WSN Environmental Solutions is planning to build a new low-emissions waste processing facility at its Lucas Heights Waste and Recycling Centre.

The Ecolibrium Mixed Waste Facility aims to capture up to 100 per cent of greenhouse gases from household waste and generate enough renewable energy to power itself and export excess power to the NSW Energy Grid. It also aims to produce more water than it uses.

"At full capacity the facility is designed to prevent 5,000 tonnes of greenhouse gases per year," said WSN Environmental Solutions CEO Ken Kanofski.

"It will also recover 20,000 tonnes of recyclables and produce 12,000 tonnes of water per year through stormwater harvesting and extracting water from household waste."

Plastic, glass, metal and food scraps – accounting for 70 per cent of waste – will be recovered for reuse and recycling. The remaining 30 per cent will be processed into a stabilized and odourless substance before it is landfilled.

An Environmental Assessment (EA) of the proposed waste processing facility has been completed and is on public display from 30 September until 2 November 2009. An extensive community consultation process will be carried out during the development application process.

Should approval be granted, construction is planned to start in 2010. The facility should be in commissioning phase in 2011 and will be operational in 2012.

Local residents will receive a brochure detailing the proposal and seeking comment in the near future. For further information, please click here.

The EA can be viewed on the NSW Department of Planning website under Development Assessments ‘On exhibition’ at www.planning.nsw.gov.au

All submissions must be sent to The NSW Department of Planning, Major Development Assessment, GPO Box 39, Sydney NSW 2001.

Click below for more information about:
What Happens at the Lucas Heights Waste & Recycling Centre
Waste and Climate Change
Waste Technologies