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Over the past few years much attention has been given to microbial fuel cells and growing algae to fix carbon dioxide and make biofuels. Now researchers in a UK lab have created graphene from the methane produced by anaerobically digested food waste. Graphene is carbon engineered in ultra-thin but extremely strong layers.

This sounds like a great idea for moving towards a circular economy. But is it scalable?

Back by popular demand, the Newtown Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant Valentine’s Day Tour occurs tomorrow. So popular in fact, if you’re not already signed up, you’ll have to sign up for another day!

Most of my colleagues are very familiar with my sincere passion for this industry. They know I often visit the local treatment plant during my travels, and thoroughly enjoy explaining how everything works.

The bottom line is that most people take sanitation for granted and show no concern for wastewater collection and treatment, until they have a problem with their plumbing or there is a significant rate increase on the monthly water and sewer bill.

Photo by Dreamstime

This industry has gone way beyond providing protection for public health and the environment. These facilities are now changing the future with their focus on resource recovery – clean water, energy and fertilizer.

In the spirit of Valentine’s Day tomorrow, remember both your sweetheart and your local wastewater treatment professional – and don’t take either of them for granted!

Photo by Dreamstime

On January 1, Vancouver, British Columbia instituted a ban on food waste in the garbage. Isn’t it ironic that at the same time some community officials are voicing concerns about lost tipping fees and private haulers taking their loads into Seattle?

Read more at Burnaby Newsleader