Biosolids better managed in SW Florida with new organics composting plant

PUNTA GORDA, FL, Feb. 14, 2014 -- A new $4.3-million organics composting recycling center was recently built in Southwest Florida designed to minimize environmental impact by utilizing aerobic composting to recycle organics such as biosolids, yard trimmings and other green waste.

Synagro Technologies, Inc., the nation's largest recycler of organic residuals, completed construction of the facility where this refuse will be converted into AA compost. According to Eric Zimmer, president and CEO of Synagro, the new utility aims to help provide a solution to address the challenge of managing organic residuals in the region.

"By converting these waste materials to a beneficial product, we can create a safe and affordable agricultural nutrient as a sustainable alternative to these valuable organic materials just taking up space in the landfill," said Zimmer. "It’s a great solution to an ongoing challenge that provides a greener and lower-cost alternative."

To gain approval and permitting for the operation of the facility, Synagro worked closely with local and county officials, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the Enivornmental Protection Agency (EPA) to ensure the plant meets all regulatory requirements.

Charlotte County Bio Recycling Center (Photo credit: Synagro)

Synagro markets the compost under the name of AllGro™. The product is a natural soil amendment designed to improve the physical structure of all types of soil by introducing organic matter that helps promote plant growth. Further, the company produces a Class-AA soil amendment for use in the local marketplace that includes 100-percent recycling of the organic materials.

"The bio-recycling center is a great asset to our sustainability programs and a far-reaching benefit to the community," said Bill Truex, Charlotte County Board of County Commissioners. "The reduction of greenhouse emissions and elimination of landfilling will help create a healthier environment for everyone, while saving the county money and bringing in a new revenue stream from contractors paying to use the facility."

Under a 20-year lease agreement with Charlotte County Public Works, the facility, located at the Zemel Road landfill, will help divert organic material from the landfill and provide a long-term sustainable and economic recycling solution for the region. A grand opening ceremony is scheduled to be held Thursday, Feb. 20.

See also: "Sustainable biosolids recycling solution for Southwest Florida municipalities".

About Synagro

Founded in 1986, Synagro provides a system of solutions for civic and commercial organizations that manages by-products to create new, environmentally compelling options. The company's system transforms industrial and municipal waste into environmentally sustainable resources that benefit our communities and our planet. Serving more than 600 municipal and industrial water and wastewater facilities throughout the U.S., the Synagro's systems of by-product management services help municipalities of all sizes save money and meet environmental regulations. For more information, visit www.synagro.com.

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