Composting made simple With EcoPOD technology
AgBag Systems offer the EcoPOD - a unique waste management solution that makes composting simple, via a low-cost contained system using forced aeration. Our system is reliable and efficient with capacities to match any requirement.
The EcoPOD offers a low-tech solution with a high degree of process control. It eliminates many composting concerns including odour and litter complaints; weather-related problems; leachate control and high operating costs. This proven methodology of ‘contained or in-vessel composting’ utilises LDPE plastic which is completely recyclable. The EcoPOD can be either 1.5 metres or 3 metres in diameter and up to 60 metres in length. When full, it is sealed at each end to prevent leachate loss to the ground. Dark green in colour, the EcoPOD blends with surroundings and attracts solar heat. Depending on the size used, an EcoPOD will hold up to 550 cubic metres of shredded and mixed materials.
A key benefit of the Ecopod System is that compost no longer requires turning!
The EcoPOD composting system provides excellent control of moisture content, oxygen supply and temperature. Free air space is controlled by density compacting controls on the filling machine. The oxygen supply is replenished by forced aeration and eliminates the labour intensive need to turn. Temperature monitors indicate when the airflow needs adjusting to maintain proper temperatures. Moisture is adjusted at the time of filling the EcoPOD, or added to the total mixture upon blending. The EcoPOD maintains consistent moisture and temperature levels throughout the process while other systems do not. The compost matrix is sufficient in size to maintain heat, even in cold climates.
Further benefits of the Ecopod system are shown below, click on the benefit to read more...
Odour containment is assured within the sealed EcoPOD. The valve and aeration control process within the EcoPOD maintains aerobic activity during the composting cycle, making it possible to individualise the composting process. This requires a minimal amount of labour and supervision.
With all material contained inside there is no exposure to weather and the problems of wind blown litter and pathogen aerosol release are eliminated. Any leachate is also contained within the EcoPOD, and can be evaporated prior to opening using the forced aeration system.
The area needed to compost is determined by the volume of waste material to be processed. An EcoPOD requires one-third of the space needed for a windrow. Eleven 3 metre x 60 metre PODs fit on a one-acre site and based on our recommended density of material, would hold approximately 6000 cubic metres. The site requirements are as simple as a slope of a few degrees with a gravel or hard-packed surface. Asphalt or concrete are not necessary, but will improve access efficiencies.
The EcoPOD system provides a cycle time of as little as 8-10 weeks after which the EcoPOD is opened and the stabilised compost removed and left for 30-60 days for maturation. Three composting cycles per year are therefore possible on the same area of land.
For more information, see our Frequently Asked Questions.