Sludge Management: Understanding the Current Trends and Advances in Municipal Sludge Technology and Innovative Options Related to Sludge Management

Abstract

The continuous advancement of sludge treatment processes is critical to municipal wastewater treatment operations and the healthy development of the sewage treatment industry. The last 30 years have shown a global diversification of sludge management, processing, and treatment technologies. Despite the fact that the three main treated sludge disposal routes are still dominant (i.e., land application, landfill, and stockpiling), new approaches are emerging that cover using sludge for recovering resources (hydrogen, biochar, nutrients) and energy. The overarching aim of the project is to analyse the latest trends and advances in municipal wastewater sludge management research, development, and innovation. The final report covers shifts in technology, practice aligned to the climate agenda and related legislation, sludges as a resource, breakthrough innovations, and management processes. This research report also informed and complements a high-level strategic pathway for research investment in wastewater sludge treatment.

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