City of Iqaluit Biosolids Treatment and Diversion Field Study

Type of initiative FCM Green Municipal Fund - Plans, Studies, Pilots
Sector Waste
Project value$170,000
Project Type Pilot Project
Sub Sector Composting
Grant amount$46,750
Program type GMF
Municipality City of Iqaluit, NU
Status Fully Disbursed
Population 7,429
Project timeline 2007 - 2011
Project number 9090

Description

The City of Iqaluit will conduct a field test to determine the optimum conditions for freeze-thaw moisture reduction and open composting of its primary sewage sludge. Both processes will be conducted in an open area at the landfill site with an expected process cycle time of 20 months from start to finish. The study will evaluate variations in biosolids layering, requirements for the use of bulking agents, mixing schedules, and timing for process completion. The composition of the resulting compost (moisture content, pathogen reduction, and metal content) will be the deciding factor in proceeding to full-scale implementation at the City’s new mechanized wastewater treatment plant. The eventual capital project has the potential to divert 1,940 m3 of untreated biosolids from the primary and secondary treatment processes from entering the landfill. The processing of biosolids would also result in a valuable resource to be used as landfill cover material. As such, the potential for soil, groundwater, and surface water contamination would be reduced and public health concerns would be alleviated. The results will be applicable to communities across the Canadian North.

Applicant

City of Iqaluit, NU