Title
Long-Term Biosolids Management Strategy
Recommendation
That the CRD Board:
1. Endorse the following portfolio of options in alignment with the Long-Term Biosolids Management Strategy (prepared by GHD, April 2024), utilizing each option under a prioritization structure, as follows:
(a) Tier 1: Advanced thermal option: Constitutes the preferred long-term solution and will be pursued concurrently with options in other tiers. Current projects include:
(i) Develop a demonstration facility for advanced thermal processing, as planned. Outcomes from the demonstration project will serve as the basis for a scaled,
long-term solution.
(b) Tier 2: Out-of-region compliance options: Constitute measures that the CRD will utilize to ensure regulatory compliance is continuously achieved while the Tier 1 thermal processing option is being implemented and when options in Tier 1 are unable to process the totality of biosolids produced in the region. These are (in priority order):
(i) Industrial land reclamation such as mine and quarry sites (acknowledging that some reclaimed sites may eventually have a pasture land end use)
(ii) Forest fertilization
(iii) Production of biosolids growing medium and/or feedstock in soil production
(iv) Partnerships with established biosolids programs
(v) Continue alternative fuel combustion in the cement manufacturing facility in Richmond, BC. Prioritize this option when available.
(c) Tier 3: In-region contingency options: Constitute contingency options to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. The CRD would implement Tier 3 options on a contingency basis, only when options within the Tier 2 portfolio are unavailable. These include (in priority order):
(i) Industrial land reclamation such as mine and quarry sites (acknowledging that some reclaimed sites may eventually have a pasture land end use)
(ii) Forest fertilization
(iii) Maintain the option of biosolids application in engineered cover systems at Hartland Landfill to act as...
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