Abstract
Generation and disposal of biosolids (solid and semisolid materials left after the wastewater treatment) has becoming a challenge globally. A large number of objectionable components like heavy metals, pesticides, detergents and pathogens restricts the direct application of biosolids in the cultivation of agricultural crops as it contaminates the soil as well as the cultivated crops and causes health issues. Co-composting of biosolids can be a viable option to utilize the biosolids in a definite proportion along with different types of biodegradable materials (co-substrate) such as, kitchen waste, agricultural residues, forestry waste and waste from the animal husbandry etc. Co-composting improves the nutrients status of the composted biosolids and reduce the risk of accumulation of toxic heavy metals and pathogens in the soil and cultivated crops. The application of biosolids compost in to the soils significantly improve the physical structure, nutrients composition and microbial profile of the soils and subsequently enhance the crops productivity. It also reduces the risk of contamination of the soils and cultivated agricultural crops in comparison to the direct use of biosolids in soil amendment. In this paper we discussed the use of biosolids in agriculture, co-composting of biosolids with different co-substrates and their application in the cultivation of different agricultural crops for sustainable agriculture production.
Published Version
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