Abstract:
One of the most pressing environmental problems worldwide is sewage sludge (SS)
management. Every year, wastewater volume increases and thus, the amount of SS produced
increases as well. The disposal of SS in landfills, as practiced in many countries, is not a sustainable
solution. Instead, SS, rich in organic matter and other nutrients, can be used as an alternative soil
additive or fertilizer. The properties of these materials depend on their chemical composition and the
method of treatment. Experience from a number of countries, such as the US and Europe, has shown
that SS can be transformed from a waste into a valuable resource, provided that the final product
fulfils the relevant regulatory standards. This review examines the sustainable conversion of SS to
sustainable fertilizers, the impact on waste minimization, and the potential benefits in agriculture.
