Sustainable methodical approaches to recycling sludge waste: value-added products, and their agricultural applications

Abstract

Purpose: This review addresses the important global issue of increased sludge accumulation from wastewater treatment plants, which poses serious environmental challenges due to heavy metals and high levels of organic pollution. The study provides a thorough review of sludge-to-value-added product recovery methods, including anaerobic digestion, composting, vermicomposting, and pyrolysis. Method: The review highlights recent advances and examines the strengths and weaknesses of each approach. Given the significant loss of organic components before sludge generation, a unified strategy for value-added product recovery management is crucial, as the study emphasizes. Results: The study provides important standards for choosing the best technique for sustainable sludge management from a waste-to-resources standpoint. Conclusion: The study shows sewage sludge's potential as a valuable organic resources with higher nutrient compositions (Nitrogen 2.5 - 5.5%, Phosphorus 0.8 - 2.5%, Potassium 1.5 - 3.5%, Calcium 1.2 - 4.5%, and Magnesium 0.3 - 0.8% respectively) and its possible uses in agriculture. Research Highlights • Emerging investigation on recycling sludge waste to value added end products has been addressed • Progressive methods on sludge management have been articulated • Pros, cons and limitations of various sludge management practices were also addressed • Agricultural applications of value added products obtained from sludge have been discussed

Keywords

• Agriculture
• Recycling
• Soil application
• Treatment practices
• Environmental impact