"Circular Economy", via renewable energy and resource recovery

This project aims to upscale and integrate wastewater-based algae production and treatment processes into large urban sewage treatment plants. Microalgae utilise sunlight to remove the nutrients found within wastewater whilst simultaneously removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. The algae produced from this process becomes a feedstock for renewable energy production via anaerobic digestion. Anaerobic digestion of algae biomass results in renewable biogas production that can be used for electrical production or upgraded to liquefied natural gas.  In this process, microalgae replace traditional energy and carbon intensive nutrient removal technologies with highly innovative carbon capture and renewable energy generation, thereby resulting in cost-effective, environmentally sustainable wastewater treatment. The project has broad industry support from treatment utilities, contributing to the goal of transforming wastewater treatment plants to sustainable resource recovery centres and renewable energy hubs thereby supporting Australia’s transition towards a carbon neutral circular economy.

Collaborators

Urban Utilities