Biomass Solutions, Waste Diversion through Alternative Waste Management at Coffs Harbour

Biomass Solutions, Waste Diversion through Alternative Waste Management at Coffs Harbour is a waste diversion project located at the Englands Road Waste Management Facility, approximately 5km southwest of the Coffs Harbour CBD in New South Wales. Registered in September 2013, the project was a pioneer in the sector, transitioning from the original "Carbon Farming Initiative" (CFI) to the Emissions Reduction Fund. While area size is not applicable to facility-based projects, the site processes a significant portion of the region's municipal solid waste, with council reports indicating throughputs of approximately 24,000 tonnes per annum.

The project operates under the Alternative Waste Treatment (AWT) methodology. This involves diverting mixed solid waste (general "red bin" waste) that would otherwise be sent to landfill. The waste undergoes mechanical separation and enclosed composting technology to recover organic material. By processing this organic matter aerobically rather than allowing it to decay anaerobically in a landfill, the project prevents the generation of methane, a potent greenhouse gas.

The Coffs Harbour region is characterized by a subtropical climate with high rainfall, averaging over 1,700mm annually. The surrounding landscape features forestry operations and intensive horticulture, particularly banana and blueberry cultivation, supported by fertile Ferrosol (red volcanic) and yellow podzolic soils.

An interesting aspect of this project is its longevity and commercial evolution. It successfully completed a Carbon Abatement Contract (CAC565757) with the Australian Government, delivering 325,000 tonnes of abatement. In May 2023, the participant structure changed, with the facility operator, Biomass Solutions (Coffs Harbour) Pty Ltd, exiting the carbon project participation, leaving Corporate Carbon Advisory as the sole proponent. This site is also notable for being one of the earliest adopters of the Bedminster composting technology in Australia.