Two innovative climate change research projects by Barwon Water staff members were joint winners of the Water Minister’s Climate Innovation Challenge (WMCIC) award.
The challenge aimed to identify and reward groundbreaking projects addressing climate change within the water sector.
Barwon Water was recognised for both ‘Meta-analysis of low carbon cement alternatives for water industry applications‘ and ‘Cellulose recovery from wastewater’ research projects’. Both projects were declared joint winners of the award.
Barwon Water Managing Director Shaun Cumming said he was proud of employees Hayley Vinden and Emma McKinnon, respectively. Their research put the organisation at the cutting edge of emissions reduction in the water sector.
“We are thrilled to be acknowledged in the Water Minister’s Climate Innovation Challenge.
“These victories underscore our commitment to pioneering sustainable solutions in the water industry and achieving zero net emissions by 2030.”
‘Meta-analysis of low carbon cement alternatives for water industry applications‘ was a collaboration between Yarra Valley Water, North East Water, and Barwon Water.
It focused on identifying greener alternatives to concrete, a significant contributor to global carbon emissions.
Cement, which makes up a significant portion of concrete, generates approximately 8 per cent of the world’s carbon emissions.
The winning team was led by Lisa Ehrenfried (Yarra Valley Water), Hayley Vinden (Barwon Water), and Jill Fagan (North East Water). They were awarded a $30,000 grant to explore low-carbon cement alternatives. It aims to create a blueprint for global implementation within the water industry.
Climate innovation award
The second award-winning project, ‘Cellulose recovery from wastewater‘, was led by Barwon Water’s Emma McKinnon and received a $20,000 grant. McKinnon’s project addresses the environmental impact of toilet paper consumption, a significant contributor to deforestation.
The Australian-first solution explored in the research extracts high-quality cellulose fibres from flushed toilet paper, recovering 82 to 98 per cent of the cellulose content.
The versatile raw material has applications in civil engineering, construction, agriculture, chemicals, energy, and paper and cardboard production. It promotes a circular economy and reduces environmental impact.
Notably, the project also offers a 20 per cent reduction in energy consumption in wastewater treatment and a 10 per cent increase in treatment plant capacity. It also has the potential to save at least one tree and prevent up to 2.5 tonnes of CO2 emissions for every tonne of cellulose upcycled from wastewater.
Barwon Water’s Black Rock Water reclamation plant saves 7-8 trees a day and prevents 19 tonnes of carbon emissions.
It appreciates the support received through the WMCIC funding. The funding will contribute to proving the feasibility of these innovative projects in an Australian context.
Barwon Water is dedicated to advancing sustainability and driving positive change within the water industry.
About Barwon Water
Barwon Water is a leading water corporation based in Geelong. It is committed to providing sustainable water services for the communities it serves. With a focus on innovation and environmental responsibility, Barwon Water strives to lead the way in shaping the future of water management.
About the Water Minister’s Climate Innovation Challenge
The Water Minister’s Climate Innovation Challenge is an annual initiative to recognise and reward innovative projects addressing climate change within the Victorian water sector. The challenge is run in collaboration with Intelligent Water Networks and the Department of Energy, Environment, and Climate Action. It encourages water corporations to contribute to reducing carbon emissions and adopting sustainable practices.
Related Articles:
- Wannon Water wins global award for core values
- Barwon Water supports National Water Week, celebrates artwork
- Best-practice waste management on display at Waste Expo 2023