In-Vessel Composting
Operator: Heiltsuk Nation
Location: Bella Bella, B.C. Canada
Feedstock: Green Waste
Capacity: 360 T/year
Year Installed: 2024
Project Components:
Location: Bella Bella, B.C. Canada
Feedstock: Green Waste
Capacity: 360 T/year
Year Installed: 2024
Project Components:
- 40’ Intermodal Earth Flow
- Automatic Mixing & Aeration
- Moisture Addition System
- Biofilter Odor Control
Client’s Requirements
This case study highlights the successful composting program of the Heiltsuk Nation in Bella Bella, an island village located on the central coast of British Columbia.
Being located on an island, Bella Bella faces financial and logistical challenges with waste disposal. Bella Bella previously had a history of outdoor community composting efforts, although on a limited scope with many challenges during winter months.
The cold & wet climate required adjustments to the open air composting process and the cold winters hindered previous composting efforts.
To create a comprehensive and effective composting program, the system needed to be enclosed to prevent frequent rains from saturating the material, while also protecting the process from extremely cold winters and minimizing risk of wild animals such as bears from becoming a problem.
Our Solution
The Earth Flow system enabled a more efficient and impactful composting program while saving the community money from avoided trash disposal costs. The system doubled their composting capacity compared to previous methods, with year-round operation and increased community participation. Composting on-site reduces reliance on landfills and promotes a circular economy, supporting local agriculture and building community resilience and connection.
GMT consultants and engineers helped to identify and recommend a unique recipe of 1:1:1 food scraps, dry wood shavings, and wet wood chips effectively managing moisture in the wet climate. The Earth Flow system maintains ideal temperatures (45°C at the load end and 67°C in the middle) for efficient composting. Community involvement has also increased, plans are underway for a curbside collection program using rolling toters, enhancing community participation. The finished compost will be used in local community gardens, such as “Granny's Garden,” further bolstering local agricultural activities, food security, and food sovereignty.
GMT consultants and engineers helped to identify and recommend a unique recipe of 1:1:1 food scraps, dry wood shavings, and wet wood chips effectively managing moisture in the wet climate. The Earth Flow system maintains ideal temperatures (45°C at the load end and 67°C in the middle) for efficient composting. Community involvement has also increased, plans are underway for a curbside collection program using rolling toters, enhancing community participation. The finished compost will be used in local community gardens, such as “Granny's Garden,” further bolstering local agricultural activities, food security, and food sovereignty.
Gene Larsen, the Earth Flow operator at Bella Bella, reports a streamlined and efficient process compared to the previous system. When asked about the Earth Flow composter, Gene said he was “very happy with it” - it is more streamlined and efficient.”
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