Montrose Environmental Group Partners with Waste Connections to Use Patented PFAS Treatment System to Address PFAS-Impacted Landfill Leachate

Rhea-AI Summary

Montrose Environmental Group (NYSE: MEG) has partnered with Waste Connections to address PFAS-impacted landfill leachate at Waste Connections' Champ Landfill using Montrose's patented PFAS treatment system. The project involves:

• Deployment of ECT2's FOAM-X™ treatment system
• Rapid leachate sample analysis by Enthalpy Analytical
• Design and installation of a full-scale treatment system
• Educational program support at Waste Connections' Sustainability Campus

The system offers ease of operation, reduced cost and carbon footprint, and targeted removal of PFAS compounds. A ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place on August 6, 2024, at the Champ Landfill Sustainability Campus in Maryland Heights, Missouri.

Positive

• Montrose's FOAM-X™ system effectively treats PFAS in liquid waste with high levels of co-contaminants
• The treatment system offers ease of operation and reduced cost
• Low energy consumption leads to a reduced carbon footprint
• The solution supports regulatory compliance and prevents PFAS discharge into local wastewater treatment plants
• Public tours of the PFAS treatment system will be available, potentially increasing visibility and interest in the technology

Negative

• None.

Insights

Environmental Analyst

The collaboration between Montrose Environmental Group and Waste Connections to combat PFAS contamination in landfill leachate is significant in the environmental sector. PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are known as 'forever chemicals' due to their persistence in the environment and potential health risks. This partnership not only addresses a critical environmental issue but also aligns with future regulatory standards set by the EPA. By proactively deploying Montrose's FOAM-X™ treatment system, Waste Connections is positioning itself as a leader in environmental responsibility and innovation. This technology, which utilizes air bubbles to attract and remove PFAS from leachate, offers a promising solution for other municipalities and waste management companies facing similar challenges. The potential reduction in treatment costs and carbon footprint further underscores the environmental and economic benefits of this initiative.

Market Research Analyst

From a market perspective, this partnership can significantly enhance the valuation and market perception of both Montrose Environmental Group and Waste Connections. Montrose’s patented PFAS treatment technology showcases their innovative edge and broadens their market opportunities in environmental solutions. For Waste Connections, this project highlights their commitment to sustainability, potentially attracting environmentally conscious investors. Additionally, proactive compliance with potential future EPA regulations can mitigate risks and avoid potential fines, positioning both companies as forward-thinking and responsible leaders in their industry. The positive publicity from the ribbon-cutting ceremony and public tours can further enhance their reputations and investor confidence.

Financial Analyst

Financially, the deployment of the FOAM-X™ system at Champ Landfill could have several implications. For Montrose Environmental Group, the successful implementation and potential scaling of this technology can lead to increased revenue streams, particularly if it becomes a preferred solution for PFAS treatment across multiple sites. The investment in research and development and the subsequent operational deployment also demonstrate Montrose's capacity for innovation and effective project execution, which can be attractive to investors. For Waste Connections, the cost implications of adopting this technology versus potential regulatory penalties or the costs associated with untreated PFAS contamination are significant. By investing in this technology now, they may realize long-term savings and operational efficiencies, improving their financial stability and predictability.

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. and TORONTO, July 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Montrose Environmental Group, Inc. ("Montrose") (NYSE: MEG), a high-growth global environmental solutions company, and Waste Connections (TSX/NYSE: WCN), today shared insight into the use of Montrose's patented per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) treatment system to address PFAS-impacted landfill leachate at Waste Connections' Champ Landfill.

In January 2023, the EPA released Effluent Guidelines Program Plan 15 which announced plans to develop new effluent limitation guidelines and pretreatment standards to reduce the presence of PFAS in landfill leachate. Landfill leachate is a liquid that forms when rainwater is passed through wastes in a landfill, and unlike municipal water, it increases treatment challenges as it varies widely in composition and contains dissolved and suspended materials. 

Ahead of regulatory enforcement and to proactively address PFAS passively received in municipal solid waste, Waste Connections contacted Montrose and its subsidiary ECT2 to evaluate and identify the best PFAS removal technology for landfill leachate at their Champ Landfill in Missouri. Key components of the project included:

• Research, development and deployment of a pilot treatment system;
• Use of ECT2's patented FOAM-X™ treatment system;
• Rapid leachate sample analysis by Montrose subsidiary Enthalpy Analytical;
• Design and installation of a full-scale treatment system; and
• Educational program support at Waste Connections' Sustainability Campus for guided tours and programs to educate the general public on PFAS and the treatment system.

"ECT2's FOAM-X™ system is highly effective at treating PFAS in liquid waste with high levels of co-contaminants, including landfill leachate," said Vijay Manthripragada, President and Chief Executive Officer of Montrose Environmental Group. "Air is injected in the form of tiny bubbles, which attracts PFAS to the air-water interface, removing it from the water column. Removing PFAS from landfill leachate breaks the cycle of PFAS from discarded consumer products entering our waterways and dispersing through the environment."

Key outcomes of the system include:

• Ease of operation;
• Reduced cost and carbon footprint from low energy consumption; and
• Targeted removal of PFAS compounds.

Montrose's comprehensive solution supports regulatory compliance and prevents the discharge of PFAS-impacted landfill leachate into local wastewater treatment plants.

Brittany Maloy, sustainability supervisor, of Waste Connections Sustainability Campus commented: "We are excited to be working with Montrose Environmental Group and ECT2 as their technology solution aligns perfectly with the mission of Waste Connections Sustainability Campus: to promote environmental responsibility and foster a culture of innovation. Our primary goal is to reduce our environmental footprint and this PFAS treatment facility is a commitment to that objective."

A ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place at the Champ Landfill Sustainability Campus in the City of Maryland Heights, Missouri on August 6, 2024. Public tours of the PFAS treatment system are available most days by appointment.

"Our ribbon-cutting ceremony marks a significant milestone in our efforts to address the complex environmental challenges associated with PFAS contamination, particularly at landfill sites. Recognizing the growing concern over PFAS contamination and lack of regulations requiring its removal from water, Waste Connections has taken a proactive stance by installing the first PFAS Water Treatment Plant in Missouri," stated Cherie Summa, Waste Connections/Champ Landfill district manager.

About Montrose

Montrose is a leading environmental solutions company focused on supporting commercial and government organizations as they deal with the challenges of today and prepare for what's coming tomorrow. With ~3200 employees across 100+ locations worldwide, Montrose combines deep local knowledge with an integrated approach to design, engineering, and operations, enabling Montrose to respond effectively and efficiently to the unique requirements of each project. From comprehensive air measurement and laboratory services to regulatory compliance, emergency response, permitting, engineering, and remediation, Montrose delivers innovative and practical solutions that keep its clients on top of their immediate needs – and well ahead of the strategic curve. For more information, visit www.montrose-env.com.

About Waste Connections

Waste Connections is the premier provider of solid waste collection, transfer, recycling, and disposal services, along with recycling and resource recovery, in mostly exclusive and secondary markets across the US and Canada. Waste Connections also provide non-hazardous oilfield waste treatment, recovery, and disposal services in several basins across the U.S., as well as intermodal services for the rail haul movement of cargo and solid waste containers in the Pacific Northwest.  We are committed to improving the environment for the future of the communities we live in and serve. We believe that our services play an integral part in improving environment quality and are mindful of having the most cost-effective waste management solutions for our customers. We constantly monitor and evaluate new technologies and programs that can enhance our commitment to the environment. Within our company, there is enormous effort made toward alternative technologies to reduce landfill disposal, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and harness bio-fuels. For more information, visit ChampLandfill.com, ChampLandfill.com/Sustainability-Campus or WasteConnections.com

Forward‐Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking statements may be identified by the use of words such as "intend," "expect", and "may", and other similar expressions that predict or indicate future events or that are not statements of historical matters. Forward-looking statements are based on current information available at the time the statements are made and on management's reasonable belief or expectations with respect to future events, and are subject to risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Company's control, that could cause actual performance or results to differ materially from the belief or expectations expressed in or suggested by the forward-looking statements. Additional factors or events that could cause actual results to differ may also emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for the Company to predict all of them. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect future events, developments or otherwise, except as may be required by applicable law. Investors are referred to the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, for additional information regarding the risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statement.

Contacts

Montrose
Investor Relations:
Rodny Nacier
(949) 988-3383
ir@montrose-env.com

Media Relations:
Sarah Kaiser
(225) 955-1702
pr@montrose-env.com

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SOURCE Montrose Environmental Group, Inc.

FAQ

What is Montrose Environmental Group's (MEG) solution for treating PFAS in landfill leachate?

Montrose Environmental Group (MEG) uses its patented FOAM-X™ treatment system to address PFAS-impacted landfill leachate. The system injects air in the form of tiny bubbles, which attracts PFAS to the air-water interface, removing it from the water column.

When will the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the PFAS treatment system at Champ Landfill take place?

The ribbon-cutting ceremony for the PFAS treatment system at Champ Landfill Sustainability Campus in Maryland Heights, Missouri, is scheduled for August 6, 2024.

What are the key benefits of Montrose Environmental Group's (MEG) PFAS treatment system?

The key benefits of Montrose Environmental Group's (MEG) PFAS treatment system include ease of operation, reduced cost and carbon footprint due to low energy consumption, and targeted removal of PFAS compounds from landfill leachate.

How does Montrose Environmental Group's (MEG) PFAS treatment system support regulatory compliance?

Montrose Environmental Group's (MEG) PFAS treatment system supports regulatory compliance by preventing the discharge of PFAS-impacted landfill leachate into local wastewater treatment plants, addressing upcoming EPA effluent limitation guidelines and pretreatment standards.