Zeotech Launches Six-Month Methane Control Trial at Queensland Landfill
Zeotech Limited is set to validate its zeolite-based methane biofilter in a six-month on-site trial at a North Burnett landfill, aiming to curb emissions by over 90%. This marks a critical step from lab success to real-world application, supporting Australia’s climate goals.
- On-site trial of zeoteCH4® biofilter begins at North Burnett Regional Council landfill
- Previous simulated trials showed methane reduction exceeding 90%
- Collaboration with Griffith University to monitor performance over six months
- Trial site chosen near Zeotech’s Toondoon Kaolin Project for strategic synergy
- Provisional and international patents filed to protect proprietary technology
From Lab to Landfill – A New Chapter in Methane Mitigation
Zeotech Limited has announced the commencement of a pivotal on-site trial of its methane emissions control technology, zeoteCH4®, at a landfill operated by the North Burnett Regional Council in Queensland. This trial follows promising laboratory simulations where the biofilter consistently reduced methane emissions by more than 90%, a significant achievement given methane’s potent greenhouse gas impact.
The six-month trial, conducted in partnership with Griffith University, will test the biofilter’s performance under real-world conditions. Over 800 data points will be collected to evaluate how effectively the zeolite-based biofilter adsorbs and oxidises methane in an operational landfill environment. This marks a crucial step in transitioning from controlled experiments to practical, scalable solutions for Australia’s numerous regional landfills.
Strategic Collaboration and Regional Impact
Zeotech’s CEO, James Marsh, emphasised the importance of the partnership with North Burnett Regional Council and Griffith University. The landfill site’s proximity to Zeotech’s Toondoon Kaolin Project not only reinforces the company’s regional commitment but also aligns resource development with environmental innovation. The trial’s success could offer a cost-effective, non-invasive alternative to expensive gas recovery systems, particularly suited to the many Australian landfills lacking such infrastructure.
Dr Chris Pratt from Griffith University, who leads the research, highlighted the trial’s potential to validate the technology at scale. If successful, zeoteCH4® could become a practical tool for landfill operators to significantly reduce methane emissions, contributing meaningfully to Australia’s climate objectives.
Protecting Innovation and Looking Ahead
Zeotech has proactively secured intellectual property protections, lodging provisional and international patent applications for its zeolite synthesis and methane control technology. This strengthens the company’s competitive edge as it moves toward commercialisation.
While the trial’s results remain pending, the initiative positions Zeotech at the forefront of environmental technology innovation within the waste management sector. The company’s approach addresses a critical gap in methane mitigation, especially for smaller, regional landfills that represent the majority of Australia’s landfill sites.
Bottom Line?
Zeotech’s live trial could redefine landfill methane management, but the proof will be in the data over the coming months.
Questions in the middle?
- Will the zeoteCH4® biofilter maintain its high methane reduction rates under variable weather and operational conditions?
- How will the cost and scalability of the technology compare to existing landfill gas capture systems?
- What regulatory or commercial partnerships might emerge if the trial confirms the technology’s effectiveness?
