Resource-based agricultural non-point source pollution control using biological agents

Abstract

Non-point source (NPS) pollution is a major cause of the deterioration of surface water quality. Effectively controlling NPS pollution, especially that from rural areas, is critical in improving the quality and safety of water resources. However, most of the approaches employed for NPS control are low-efficiency or impractical owing to ignorance of the willingness of participants, as well as the high cost. To improve the effectiveness and efficiency, this study newly proposes a resource-based approach for agricultural NPS pollution control via using biological agents. In this approach, the domestic organic waste and livestock manure are economically utilized to produce organic fertilizers and plant protection agents to replace harmful chemical fertilizers and pesticides, respectively. The approach has been applied in the Danjiangkou catchment area in Nanyang City, and the results show that: (1) the most severe pollutants, total P and total N concentrations have been effectively reduced and their values in 2025 are predicted to be the same level as that before significant deterioration; (2) with unpowered sewage treatment and spontaneous participation of farmers, the treatment cost is significantly reduced; (3) the resource-based treatment of domestic waste and livestock manure supports the development of an efficient and sustainable agricultural economy. HIGHLIGHTS The resource-based approach is cost-saving and efficient for agricultural NPS pollution control.; The domestic sewage is treated with micro-power or no power.; The domestic organic waste and livestock manure are economically utilized.; A spontaneous collaboration arises between villagers, enterprises, and governments.;

Keywords

• agriculture
• biological agent
• non-point source pollution
• resource-based
• south-north water transfer project