ExxonMobil PNG, operating in Papua New Guinea, is committed to sustainability through effective waste management at their mining sites. These sites, such as the Hides Gas Conditioning Plant, require significant infrastructure to support hundreds of onsite employees who manage daily operations. To ensure the well being of their employees and the environment, ExxonMobil has implemented comprehensive Environmental and Social Management Plans (ESMP).

Challenges of mining operations

Operating in remote mountainous regions, ExxonMobil PNG faced the challenge of managing large volumes of waste generated by their campsites. The primary waste types include general waste, pallets, wood material, food waste, paper, cardboard, plastics, drums, sewage sludge, and scrap metal. Traditional disposal methods, such as landfilling and incineration, proved to be costly and labor-intensive. Additionally, the finite space in landfills necessitated a more sustainable solution.

On-site food waste management

In 2015, ExxonMobil PNG sought an innovative approach to waste management for remote locations and discovered the LFC-300 biodigesters. They purchased and installed four of these machines, which have been in continuous operation since then.

The LFC biodigester operates through a process known as aerobic digestion, where microorganisms break down organic waste in the presence of oxygen. This efficient method converts food waste into grey water, which can be safely discharged into the sewer system. The aerobic digestion process ensures that the breakdown of waste is thorough, resulting in minimal environmental impact by significantly reducing the volume of waste and producing water that meets environmental discharge standards. This solution significantly reduces the volume of food waste, cutting down on the costs and efforts associated with waste transportation and disposal.

Benefit:

• Cost Reduction: By reducing the volume of food waste, ExxonMobil PNG has significantly lowered the costs associated with hauling and incinerating waste.
• Labor Efficiency: The automated process of the LFC-300 biodigesters minimizes the labor required for waste management.
• Environmental Sustainability: This solution has contributed to the company’s sustainability goals by reducing the environmental impact of waste disposal. Less waste is sent to landfills, preserving limited landfill space and reducing greenhouse gas emissions from incineration.
• Protection: The use of the LFC biodigester enhances facility protection by reducing the frequency and need for waste transport, minimizing potential risks and disruptions.

ExxonMobil PNG’s adoption of LFC-300 biodigesters exemplifies their commitment to sustainable waste management. By implementing this innovative technology, they have achieved significant cost savings, labor efficiencies, and environmental benefits.