Zeotech’s zeoteCH4 Cuts Methane Emissions by 92% in Queensland Landfill Trial

Landfill Trial Achieves Substantial Methane Reduction

Zeotech Limited (ASX:ZEO) has reported a striking 92% reduction in methane emissions from landfill cover cells amended with its zeoteCH4® technology during a six-month field trial at the North Burnett Regional Council (NBRC) landfill in Queensland. Conducted in partnership with Griffith University, the trial compared four treated cells with four untreated controls under identical site conditions, delivering robust evidence of zeolite’s effectiveness in mitigating fugitive methane emissions in a real-world setting.

Methane Oxidation Confirmed Within Landfill Cover

Griffith University’s final report highlighted that the methane reduction was not merely due to delayed gas release or trapping, but consistent with active methane elimination occurring within the zeolite-amended cover layer. Methane-to-carbon dioxide ratio analysis suggested an oxidation/reduction efficiency around 85%, supporting the technology’s intended chemical and biological processes. This internal methane oxidation is critical, as it prevents methane from reaching the landfill surface and entering the atmosphere.

Practical Learnings and Site Challenges

The trial encountered a significant rainfall event shortly after installation, which caused erosion damage to two treated cells requiring repair. Encouragingly, these cells maintained low methane emissions post-repair, offering valuable insights into erosion protection and treatment-layer stability; key considerations for scaling deployment. Seasonal shifts also influenced emission levels, with natural declines observed during cooler and drier winter months, underscoring the need for extended monitoring across varied weather conditions.

Intellectual Property and Commercial Pathway

Zeotech is advancing its international patent application covering ion-exchanged zeolites for methane control, having received a positive International Search Report confirming the novelty of its claims. The company is preparing to enter the national phase in select jurisdictions, strengthening its intellectual property position as it moves toward commercialisation. The zeoteCH4® system remains installed at the NBRC site, with Zeotech considering extended monitoring to better understand long-term durability and seasonal performance, which will inform optimisation efforts.

Industry Engagement and Market Opportunity

Many landfills lack suitability for conventional engineered gas capture systems, presenting a substantial market gap for passive methane mitigation technologies like zeoteCH4®. Zeotech aims to position its solution as a cost-effective, scalable alternative for landfill operators. The successful trial provides a strong technical foundation for engaging with waste management organisations and landfill operators to secure further field trials and explore larger-scale applications. These steps are crucial for validating the technology’s performance and accelerating its commercial adoption.