Emerging pyrolysis technology shows promise for biosolid reduction and energy recovery

The March Borough Council Workshop Meeting held on March 6, 2025, in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, focused on evaluating waste management technologies, particularly the pyrolysis process and its implications for the borough's waste treatment strategy. The discussions highlighted the evolving nature of waste management technologies and their potential benefits and challenges.

A key point of discussion was the pyrolysis process, which significantly reduces waste volume by up to 90% compared to traditional methods. Unlike anaerobic digestion, pyrolysis does not require large tanks, making it a more space-efficient option. The process produces biochar, a marketable product, and recent studies indicate that harmful compounds like PFAS are not present in the final product, although ongoing research continues to monitor this aspect.

The council examined the pros and cons of various waste treatment alternatives. While pyrolysis offers lower operational and maintenance costs and the potential for energy recovery, it also presents higher capital costs and operational complexity. The council noted that this technology is still emerging, which raises concerns about its reliability and implementation.

A comparative analysis of different waste treatment methods revealed that anaerobic digestion with thermal drying emerged as the most balanced option, meeting the borough's needs with fewer trade-offs. This method is recognized as a proven technology, providing a reliable solution for waste management.

The meeting also addressed the rising costs associated with alternative technologies, particularly a significant increase in the estimated expenses for one of the options, which had escalated from $21.2 million to over $36 million since the last meeting. This financial consideration is crucial as the council weighs the long-term economic impacts of each alternative.

In conclusion, the workshop underscored the importance of selecting a waste management solution that balances economic viability, operational efficiency, and environmental sustainability. The council plans to continue evaluating these options, with a focus on making informed decisions that will benefit the community in the long run.