Trash Talk

From Waste to Innovation: The Engineering Behind Biogas Plant Development 

In this episode of Trash Talk, Dan Waineo—Director of JADE Biogas Engineering—unpacks the technical and strategic process behind building full-scale renewable natural gas (RNG) facilities. From analyzing landfill gas curves and composition to pioneering cryogenic nitrogen removal systems, Dan shares how JADE’s innovative team transforms complex challenges into efficient, scalable energy solutions. 

Discover why trust, versatility, and operational efficiency are keys to successful biogas projects—and how even small design decisions can yield major long-term benefits. Whether you're a landfill owner, developer, or simply curious about sustainable energy, this episode offers a deep dive into the engineering, economics, and human insight that power the future of RNG. that make biogas engineering successful. 

In this episode of Trash Talk, we’re hanging out at the Advanced Biogas Systems (ABS) plant in Hot Springs, NC. Steve Allman, ABS’ General Manager, and Eric Stuehrenberg, ABS’ Plant Manager, take us behind the scenes to show how ABS designs and builds the equipment that processes landfill gas for various end uses. They walk us through ABS’ journey from manufacturing equipment for power generation projects to renewable natural gas projects, sharing how the technology has evolved and improved to make treatment systems more effective, efficient, and long-lasting. Along the way, we hear about the company’s growth, the impact on the local community, and how doing everything under one roof—from design to controls—gives an advantage to ABS’ customers. It’s a story of innovation, resilience, and a whole lot of teamwork. 

Watch the video version here: https://youtu.be/DcAeA43tiWE 

Ever wonder what it takes to wrangle gas out of a landfill? Andy Murrer from Advance One breaks it down—literally. From drilling wells and laying pipe to managing safety in extreme conditions, Andy walks us through the gritty, technical, and often unpredictable world of landfill gas recovery. Whether it’s navigating toxic gases, troubleshooting in real time, or working through heat waves and snowstorms, this episode sheds light on the people and processes behind the construction of turning waste into energy. If you’re curious about how landfill gas systems actually get built—from the ground up—this episode is a front-row seat. Advance One isn’t just laying pipe—they’re laying the foundation for cleaner energy, one wellfield at a time. 

Sit down with Dan Zimmerman, Director of Operations at Landfill Group, for an unfiltered look at what it really takes to run RNG facilities day in and day out. From managing complex wellfields to staying ahead of breakdowns and putting safety first, Dan shares how the operations team powers it all—often in the dark, on holidays, and under pressure. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to turn trash into energy, this episode is for you. 

Tune in your way: LandfillGroup.BuzzSprout.com/ or https://youtu.be/kNpYxQqsalI 

In this episode of Trash Talk, the team is here to finally answer, “What does the Landfill Group actually do?” Spoiler: It’s not just "working at the dump". Mike and Dan dig into the environmental power of modern landfills, how trash becomes a renewable energy source, and why capturing methane matters more than ever. Take a listen and uncover the science, systems, and soul that goes into turning trash into treasure. 

“It ain't what you don't know that gets you into trouble. It's what you know for sure that just ain't so.” – Mark Twain

In this episode of Trash Talk, Mike Fenton and Dan Zimmerman unpack the "Belief Triangle"—a simple but powerful framework that connects experiences, beliefs, and actions. They share how it’s used at the Landfill Group to improve communication, decision-making, and company culture, as well as in their personal lives. From tying your shoes to making major business moves, this triangle shows up everywhere. Give it a listen and see what beliefs might be shaping your behavior.

You can also watch this episode here: https://youtu.be/UgSJtAPxSOI"

Will Brinker and Steve Allman take us back to the roots of the Landfill Group’s manufacturing branch in this episode of Trash Talk. What began as an unexpected solution to stay within budget led to the creation of Advanced Biogas Systems (ABS). From building equipment in cornfields to working out of small shop bays—and eventually into shops of their own—this is the story of how grit, challenges, and growth built something lasting.

This episode was recorded in May 2024—just a few months before Hurricane Helene devastated Asheville and the surrounding areas. The ABS team worked tirelessly to clean up and recover from the damage to their facility in Asheville. Recently, ABS purchased an existing manufacturing facility in Hot Springs, NC and is in the process of relocating there.

Although nearly a year has passed, the damage from Hurricane Helene remains, and so does the need. Landfill Group is partnering with The Build for Good Foundation to continue supporting long-term recovery efforts. The goal is to aid these communities and other relief organizations with our skilled labor resources. A great deal of work has already started, but we have years of rebuilding ahead of us. If you are in a position to help in any way, please consider supporting The Build For Good Foundation as we continue efforts to rebuild and repair our beloved mountain communities. 100% of the contributions made will be directly supporting the Hurricane Helene relief efforts in Western NC, Eastern TN, and SW Virginia. You may contribute through Venmo directly @Build4Good or account.venmo.com/u/Build4Good. Learn more about the foundation at: TheBuildForGoodFoundation.org/.

In this special episode, we sit down for a candid conversation with the founder and former President of Enerdyne, Bill Brinker, and our Managing Director, Will Brinker. You’ll hear lessons from the past, stories from the trenches, and advice that’s as real as it gets—served with a side of heart. No script, no set agenda—just two generations talking shop, sharing laughs, and reflecting on the journey so far.

In this episode of Trash Talk, Will, Andy, and Mike share the fascinating journey of the Landfill Group, from its humble beginnings to becoming a leader in landfill gas-to-energy industry, all thanks, all thanks to the simple action of someone flipping a light switch when—BOOM, the match was lit. Hear about the company’s evolution, from early challenges and growing pains to building a strong safety culture and structured processes with a focus on people and core values.  Learn how the Landfill Group has thrived by embracing innovation and fostering a supportive, family-oriented workplace. Tune in for an inspiring story of perseverance, innovation, and the remarkable impact this company is making on both the environment and its employees.

“You make a living by what you get. You make a life by what you give.” – Winston Churchill

We have a quick one today! Join our team as they discuss The Landfill Group's charity board, the Renewable Giving Foundation, and the actions they've taken to support nonprofits by directing resources to causes that create a meaningful impact.

Listen in for personal stories and learn how these efforts are transforming lives while fostering a culture of generosity, and discover how one company's commitment to philanthropy is leaving the world a little better than they found it.