Kay Shaw, Mactrap Ltd

Innovative pre-treatment solutions when standard systems will not work

Biography
Owner of Mactrap with Steve.  A lifetime in sports, crime and IT has equipped me well for the industry!  The core of Mactraps’ business and my personal driver is to be a problem solver.

We help customers find solutions that presents a win-win-win for the customer, the ww network, Mactrap and the environment.

Abstract
When the impossible becomes possible - what pre-treatment solution will work when:

• The rock walls of the Kawarau Gorge cannot be penetrated?
• sediment may carry biological contaminates and the filtration system must filter to 100 microns?
• When a service station forecourt cannot be excavated, an above ground trap with an inlet invert at 800mm is not an option, and an under-bench trap is not suitable?
• The Fletcher Gib Products laboratory requires a 2 stage filtered sediment trap.
• NZ’s largest retail store with over 40 food outlets needs a grease trap that can manage this challenge and be emptied from a location over 50 metres away.
• One of NZ’s busiest ribs, steak and seafood restaurants must utilize under-bench pre-treatment devices including: stainless steel chamber and pumps, capable of receiving 120 litres of nearly boiling, fatty water: the water is lifted a new grease removal unit capable of accepting 4.0litres/second,
• Stainless steel Fuel oil separator for hospital heli-pad.  All custom design – details to come

Alistair Broughton, BPO

Covering total cost of trade waste in Council trade waste charging models

Biography
Alistair is a process engineer working with BPO. His primary work background and interests are in the design of waste treatment systems including anaerobic digestion of waste for energy capture and biological nutrient removal. He has designed and commissioned wastewater treatment plants in New Zealand, Australia and Indonesia.

Abstract
New Zealand Councils typically employ unit charge-based mechanisms for wastewater treatment plant dischargers. While unit charges work well for consistent flows and loads, they do not adequately account for fluctuating industrial discharge volumes, As a result, council bears the cost (capital and depreciation) of any spare capacity that is needed to accommodate fluctuating trade waste loads.  The Trade Waste Charging Model (TWCM) developed by BPO addresses this by separating Capex and operating costs based on dischargers’ peak and average daily flows and loads. The customers pay for their share of the operating and capital cost of the wastewater treatment plant based on a sophisticated breakdown of the waste components and allocation of appropriate cost for the component’s treatment. By offering industry transparency through a structured approach, the TWCM enhances financial predictability for investments in waste management practices. Ultimately, this approach aims to maintain sustainable wastewater treatment operations while ensuring equitable cost recovery across all stakeholders involved.

Janine Cole, Fonterra

Harnessing Bacterial Enzymes for Organic Waste Treatment: A Sustainable Solution.

Biography
Janine is an experienced Environmental Health Specialist with a demonstrated history of working in the government administration industry. Skilled in Budgeting, Food & Beverage, Food Science, GMP, and Quality Assurance. Strong healthcare services professional graduated from Massey University.

Abstract
Organic waste management presents a pressing global challenge, with traditional disposal methods contributing to environmental degradation and resource depletion. Enzymes derived from bacteria hold immense potential for revolutionizing the treatment of organic waste, offering a sustainable and environmentally preferable alternative to conventional methods. This abstract explores the promising potential of utilizing bacterial enzymes as a sustainable solution for organic waste treatment.

Bacterial enzymes exhibit extraordinary catalytic properties that enable them to break down complex organic molecules present in waste materials into simpler, biodegradable components. The process involves the cultivation of specific bacterial strains capable of producing enzymes with high substrate specificity for various organic compounds. These enzymes are then deployed in waste treatment systems to catalyze the degradation of organic matter, resulting in the reduction of waste volume and the generation of valuable byproducts.

Furthermore, the use of bacterial enzymes in organic waste treatment aligns with the principles of circular economy and resource efficiency by converting waste into valuable resources. By harnessing the potential of bacterial enzymes, we can pave the way for a more sustainable and environmentally preferrable approach to organic waste management.

Kerry Hall, Halgan Pty Ltd

Establishing a National Grease Trap Standard in Australia 

Biography
Kerry Hall, founder and managing director of Halgan Pty Ltd, has over 35 years of experience in manufacturing and trade waste. Under his leadership, Halgan became the first Australian company to secure National Approval for grease traps. Kerry has significantly contributed to industry standards, serving on the Australian Standards 5215 Passive Grease Arrestors and ARMA Tanks Committees. He has established key partnerships with water authorities, government entities, and industry organizations, solidifying his reputation as a leader in the field.

Abstract
Implementing a national grease trap standard in Australia is essential for maintaining the integrity and efficiency of plumbing and wastewater systems. A standardised approach ensures food service establishments and other industries follow best practices, protecting public health, the environment, and infrastructure. Developing this standard poses challenges, including coordinating with diverse state based regulators and harmonising unique regulations into a single national standard. Additionally, addressing varying requirements of grease trap manufacturers and ensuring practical implementation and enforcement require extensive negotiation, training, and resource allocation. Through collaboration and strategic planning, Australia can establish a robust grease trap standard, ensuring a sustainable and resilient future.

Marno Raath, Raath and Associates Ltd

Innovative Wastewater Treatment Solution Overview  

Biography
Marno is a seasoned Business Owner and Principal Mechanical Engineer with over 25 years of international experience in the water industry. His professional journey includes tenure with esteemed global entities such as Bermad in Israel, Sulzer in Switzerland, and The Public Scientific Research Institute in Rostov on Don.

Abstract
Raath and Associates (RAA) is a dedicated team of specialist engineers with the capacity to provide a depth of technical expertise and experience to evaluate any specific fluid handling project. RAA will analyse the needs that are required to meet environmental and safety obligations. We will design, supply, install and commission the most appropriate equipment for an optimum solution. The Company and its partners have the in-house capabilities to provide our clients with the most cost effective, resourceful, and efficient solution from bulk water supply, water balance solutions and fluid dynamics to wastewater treatment. 

We teamed with the ROSTOV Institute of Science to develop and install a solution for International patented wastewater treatment technology on a turnkey basis. This technology won the gold medal in Brussels at the International Technology Conference for the best new technology in 2003. 

After extensive research and experience from previous installations RAA is proposing a solution which does not only meet environmental requirements but has the following advantages: 

1. The total plant only uses 75% less electricity than conventional activated sludge plants. 

2. The overall footprint is 35% smaller than conventional activated sludge plants. 

3. The plant is enclosed and odourless. This brings about the advantage of curbing equipment theft and cable theft and reduces the sanitary zone to only 16 m around the plant. This ensures that the plant can be safely constructed in an urban area. 

4. The plant is fully integrated with an automation process which allows remote access and control from a desktop computer. 

5. The plant only uses circulation pumps and uses scientific principles for natural fine bubble aeration. 

6. The reduction in mechanical equipment ensures less maintenance and significantly lowers operational costs. 

7. No operating additive or chemicals are needed as it is 100% natural cleaning. 

8. The plant will meet required outflow guarantees as stipulated in the special requirements by the most stringent Consent Conditions in New Zealand. 

9. Due to the smaller footprint the construction process is approximately 35% shorter than with conventional activated sludge plants. 

10. The technology has a combined sludge age of 40 days. This ensures that a third less sludge is produced when compared to conventional activated sludge treatment plants. 

11. The simplicity and compatibility of the technology allows it to be installed on current wastewater pump stations and therefore eradicate expensive pumping costs as well as relieving pressure on overloaded wastewater treatment works. 

12. The technology can also be installed on existing aeration basins at existing works, therefore increasing capacity, reducing electrical costs without the need for additional land space. 

13. The quality of water and low electricity costs allows the principles of urban farming to be applied: 

The technology supports the “The Smart Village” concept and this differs from developer to developer. However, the common goal is the same, that is: to save energy, to conserve natural resources (water) and the environment and to simplify estate management without losing control over revenue recovery. With the help of Smart phones, the last item is the easiest to manage. 

RAA can do turnkey installations for this technology along the following lines, 

1. Design. 

2. Preparation and submission of drawings. 

3. Civil construction. 

4. Mechanical erection and electrical installation. 

5. Commissioning/Training. 

6. Handing over 

7. Operation and Maintenance  

Gary Soper, New Plymouth District Council

Understanding uncovered Wash Pads, Improving wash pad diversion system design

Biography
Gary has been involved in the waste water industry for several decades including two terms totalling 14 years working as the Trade Waste Officer for the New Plymouth District Council. During his career he has introduced North Taranaki to an alternative wash pad diversion system and along the way implemented improvements.

Abstract
Uncovered wash pads have been around for many decades and their diversion to stormwater has been detailed as far back as 1947 in a Ministry of Works (Public Works) handbook. The design of diversion systems has not changed a lot over time, however the current wash pad diversion systems are a drastic improvement on earlier designs. 

Across many regions of New Zealand uncovered wash pads are not considered ideal or permitted. However, in many cases the reasons they haven’t been permitted have been engineered out due to better designed systems. These improvements have made compliance a breeze for site staff and the authority (Council) required to undertake trade waste inspections. 

This paper discusses the advantages and disadvantages of uncovered wash pads with diversion systems to stormwater, the improvements in design which have been or are being added to improve confidence and ease of inspections, and what to look for during these inspections.

Nathan Wall, Morphum Environmental

Water Recycling System  

Biography
Nathan is an Environmental Engineer at Morphum Environmental, who has spent the last 15 years in the water industry, transitioning from a tradesman to an Engineer. Over the past 10 years, Nathan has taken on projects from all water disciplines and thrives in the detail of projects.

Abstract
Modern construction techniques such as hydro-excavation and directional drilling often require large amounts of water to assist in their operation. Treated water is often used for these activities, resulting in unnecessary water treatment. In addition, these techniques generate several avoidable waste streams. However, during the Auckland 2020 drought, Contractors were unable to use potable water from Watercare’s network for most construction activities, due to availability of public water, and concerns around low dam levels. In response, our client approached Morphum Environmental to help integrate a water recycling system onto their yard to maintain a resilient construction water supply and re-imagine their existing waste output.

The dewatering system required water to provide washdown facilities for the machinery and truck, as well as a truck wash that was included in the project. Therefore, storage of all water would have been impracticable. Therefore, a Trade Waste Agreement was required, which allowed for a discharge to Watercare’s wastewater network, but imposed strict quality and quantity controls on the discharge. This resulted in further infrastructure to be constructed to manage and store trade waste in periods of high flows. To add complexity, our client initiated stage 2 of the dewatering system resulting in changes to the supporting infrastructure and implications on trade waste management.

Tama Whatuira, Palmerston North City Council

Totara Rd WWTP Screen Room Upgrade – The importance of early operator involvement  

Biography
Nama Whatuira is currently the Wastewater Treatment Supervisor for Palmerston North City Council. He has 14 years’ experience in the three-water sector across civil construction, reticulation, water and wastewater treatment. He enjoys playing rugby, fishing and diving. His most fulfilling job is raising his 3 kids and supporting them in their academic and sporting goals.

Abstract
I will be discussing the importance of early operator involvement using the upgrade of Palmys WWTP screen room as an example. I will briefly touch on some history of the plant and then look at the screen room design before the upgrade. I will cover some of the issues we came across, some of these are design, mechanical and installation works. I will then share with you the problems and operator lead solutions we had with the screens, the compaction screws and the solids handling. Then lastly the final screen room.

Simon Winship, Co-Lab Water Services

Improvements in Trade Waste Breaches 

Biography
Co-Lab Water Services is a shared service initiative consisting of twelve Councils. The Trade Waste team provides services to Hamilton City Council, Matamata-Piako District Council, South Waikato District Council, Waipa District Council, Waitomo District Council, Rotorua Lakes Council and Taupo District Council. 

 Simon.winship@colabsolutions.govt.nz 

 Christian.shouler@colabsolutions.govt.nz 

 Dylan.whitehead@colabsolutions.govt.nz 

Abstract
Part of Council’s role is to establish limits to protect their assets and the health of its people and environment. The wastewater output from businesses is no different. But when breaches occur, it is the partnership between council and customer that helps to improve processes and mitigate further breaches. Across the seven Councils covered by Co-Lab’s trade waste service, we have seen great improvement in breaches for large industrial sites. We have worked with these businesses to identify the root causes of these breaches and establish long term plans to ensure there are no further breaches. The largest number of breaches come from low pH, followed by total Kjeldahl nitrogen and then suspended solids. In a number of case examples, the number of breaches per site reduced over time as businesses were made aware of the issues and developed ways to improve wastewater quality. The total number of breaches has also shown a decreasing trend since 2022 with many organisations being proactive in tackling trade waste breaches, taking into consideration their role in kaitiakitanga (guardianship) over their wastewater. Effective wastewater treatment takes two – Council and customer in partnership for the greater good of our people and places.