Orbital Biocarbon, a Pittsburgh-based leader in project development and finance for wastewater utilities, has announced a partnership with global carbonization technology leader PYREG. This collaboration marks a significant step forward in transforming wastewater sludge into commercial-grade biochar, renewable energy, and CO2 removal credits using PYREG’s advanced non-combustion heating technology.

The partnership comes at a crucial time as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has implemented new regulations requiring water utilities to eliminate “forever chemicals” (PFAS) from their water supply. PYREG’s technology not only helps in meeting these new EPA standards by destroying PFAS contaminants found in wastewater sludge but also converts the sludge into valuable by-products.

John Day, President of Orbital Biocarbon, expressed excitement about the potential local economic and workforce benefits. “We’re thrilled to begin deploying PYREG’s compact, modular technology across numerous wastewater treatment plants, enhancing their operational efficiency and compliance with environmental regulations,” said Day.

To finance these advanced wastewater sludge disposal facilities, Orbital Biocarbon has developed a model that secures private capital for construction, ownership, and operation, thus alleviating the need for public debt financing by wastewater utilities. This approach allows utilities to bypass traditional financial constraints and operational risks, realizing immediate value from their sludge disposal processes.

The partnership also focuses on community engagement through the implementation of the Dan’s Mountain Community Benefit Fund, which will provide grants to local organizations. This initiative follows successful models from Orbital Biocarbon’s other projects, demonstrating a commitment to not only environmental but also community sustainability.

This partnership between Orbital Biocarbon and PYREG is a landmark development in the wastewater management industry, setting a new standard for environmental responsibility and technological innovation. By transforming hazardous sludge into useful products and removing harmful chemicals from the ecosystem, this initiative not only addresses immediate environmental concerns but also contributes to the broader goal of sustainable development.

Looking ahead, Orbital Biocarbon and PYREG aim to expand their impact, with plans to implement similar technologies across the United States. The urgency and necessity of such innovations in wastewater management are echoed by industry leaders and environmental advocates alike, highlighting the critical role of advanced technology in achieving a sustainable future.

  biochar production, environmental sustainability, Orbital Biocarbon, PYREG, renewable energy credits, wastewater sludge disposal