Led by: Anglian Water
Partners: Atkins Realis, Cetogenix Ltd, Cranfield University, Severn Trent Water, Thames Water, Uisce Éireann
In recent years, the water industry has faced a seemingly growing level of concern about its approach to land application of bioresources. To move to an alternative, there needs to be a thorough understanding, through scenario testing and technology evaluation, of the most feasible alternatives.
Two recent reports highlight the role that Advanced Thermal Conversion (ATC) processes could have in making bioresources an important part of the UK’s energy resilience and Net Zero strategy. Hydrothermal Oxidation (HTO) is an Advanced Thermal Conversion (ATC) process that seeks to replicate the conditions deep under the earth’s surface. This project will explore the value proposition of HTO as an alternative bioresource strategy for the water industry in England & Wales. As an alternative to sludge-to-land, HTO would reduce or eliminate agricultural pollution risk, reduce energy use and associated greenhouse gas emissions, whilst also reducing road transport resulting in lower costs and further greenhouse gas emission reductions.
“In this groundbreaking project, paving the way for industry circularity we will be replicating the conditions that occur deep under the Earth’s surface to treat biowaste and recover valuable natural resources, benefitting the environment and society.” – Shaunna Berendsen, Chief Innovation Officer, Anglian Water
