Improving sewage sludge treatment and utilisation in China: a German perspective on barriers to and measures for the dissemination of innovative technologies

Abstract

In China, there is enormous development potential for resource recovery from sewage sludge. Government plans indicate that there will be greater investment in sewage sludge treatment, recycling and associated new technologies. Expert interviews and an expert workshop with representatives of German firms and institutions were held in order to identify barriers to and possible measures for the dissemination of technologies geared towards the utilisation of sewage sludge, such as anaerobic digestion, thermal hydrolysis and hydrothermal carbonisation. The following measures were identified as crucial: influence and support for the development of suitable regulations for sewage sludge in China, improvement in the processes and practices within specialised authorities, improved knowledge transfer, the development of appropriate business or operator models and persuasion of decision-makers within public authorities. German companies cannot implement most of these measures easily. HIGHLIGHTS For business development, it is crucial to have strong ties with Chinese partners.; Operator models require great commitment and most of the German companies are not suitable due to their size or ownership structure.; Transition school literature was helpful to develop an understanding of barriers and measures concerning resource-efficient handling of sewage sludge in China.;

Keywords

• anaerobic digestion
• hydrothermal carbonisation
• institutional barriers
• resource recovery
• socio-technical innovation
• thermal hydrolysis