What is Biogas?
The waste layers at Hiriya Mountain (1952–1999) contain organic material that decomposes under anaerobic conditions (without oxygen). This process produces biogas, a mixture of methane, carbon dioxide, and other gases.
- Methane: The main component, highly flammable and energy-rich, is a potent greenhouse gas with 28 times the warming potential of CO₂.
- Carbon Dioxide: Another significant greenhouse gas released from organic matter decomposition under aerobic conditions.
Collecting biogas and preventing its release into the atmosphere is critical for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change.
Biogas Extraction System at Hiriya
In 2005, the Dan Region Association for Sanitation established an advanced biogas extraction and collection system within Hiriya Mountain.
- The system consists of approximately 100 wells in 9 clusters, at depths ranging from 12 to 27 meters, depending on leachate levels.
- Extracted gas is directed through a main pipeline to the collection system at Hiriya Recycling Park.
- Controlled extraction allowed for the stabilization and rehabilitation of the mountain, making it a safe and publicly accessible site.
Industrial Energy Use – Partnership with Industry
In 2005, the Association signed an agreement with Ayalon Biogas to purchase the extraction rights.
With the opening of Hiriya as part of Ariel Sharon Park, the system was upgraded, including the installation of underground pipelines and buried wells for visitor safety.
The pipelines carry the gas from Hiriya, through Ariel Sharon Park, across Highway 1, to the Offis Textile Factory.
At the factory, methane gas replaces polluting fuel oil, providing a clean, cost-effective alternative energy source.
CDM Project – International Recognition
In 2006, the biogas extraction project received UN recognition under the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM), established under the Kyoto Protocol.
What is CDM?
CDM is an international carbon trading mechanism that allows developed countries to purchase emission reduction credits from developing countries.
Its goal is to promote environmental projects and implement clean technologies globally.
Israel was classified as a developing country, enabling it to sell emission reduction credits.
Implementation at Hiriya
From 2008 to 2013, the project’s emission reduction credits were traded on the global carbon market and sold to EDF, the French electricity company.
In 2014, credit issuance ceased due to falling carbon prices, but gas extraction and delivery to the textile factory continued until 2022, when the factory closed.
Today, biogas is flared by default, releasing CO₂ instead of methane, while allowing continued operation and stabilization of Hiriya Mountain.
Summary
The Hiriya Biogas Extraction Project is a pioneering environmental initiative:
- Reduces environmental hazards and prevents methane emissions
- Transforms biogas into clean, cost-effective alternative energy
- Gains international recognition as a model for carbon trading under the Kyoto Protocol