Australian company Pyrocal has been selected by the Capital Regional District (CRD) of British Columbia, Canada, as the provider of technology that will enable biochar production at a waste treatment facility.
As part of the agreement, Pyrocal is set to deliver a Continuous Carbonization Technology (CCT) to CRD’s Residuals Treatment Facility at the Hartland Landfill, where it will convert the biosolids handled at the plant into biochar.
Specifically, Pyrocal’s systems will process 100% of the region’s Class A biosolids, creating a biochar product that tackles CO2 emissions and helps boost the nutrient absorption and water retention capacities of the soil, contributing to an improved soil environment.
This deal falls in line with the CRD’s long-term Biosolids Management Strategy, announced in March 2025, which underscores the incorporation of advanced pyrolysis technology like the one developed by Pyrocal.
Once the CCT integration at the Hartland Landfill facility is up and running, the two project partners will also look into market opportunities for their biochar material, projecting to deliver an end product at a competitive price.
Expected to come online in the beginning of 2026, this initiative marks the first national carbonization project of its kind in Canada.
This collaboration comes after Pyrocal successfully delivered Australia’s first continuous carbonization facility at the Loganholme Wastewater Treatment Plant in Queensland.
Going forward, CRD and Pyrocal will work on the next phase of project development, putting together a comprehensive financial analysis and securing regulatory approvals.
The team behind the project will also dedicate efforts to public engagement, which will also include a consultation with the region’s First Nation population.
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Pyrocal CEO Barry Croker shared that his company is thrilled to bring its technology to the CRD, pointing out that this is simultaneously an Australian and a Canadian first.
He stated, “This project is a major milestone, not just for CRD and Pyrocal, but for global biosolids innovation.”
“We’re proud to support the CRD’s forward-thinking approach, delivering lasting environmental and economic benefits to Vancouver Island and demonstrating our ability to deliver impactful solutions across borders.”
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