Abstract
AbstractThis paper demonstrates the economic value of recycling treated biosolids to land in terms of (a) the effect on agricultural yield and (b) the avoidance of environmental and social costs of using conventional mineral fertilisers. Replicated field trials show that yield increases can be achieved when biosolids are used in conjunction with mineral fertilisers, compared with using conventional fertilisers. Relevant environmental and social costs of the production and use of both nitrogen and phosphate fertilisers and recycled biosolids are estimated. By recycling biosolids to agricultural land, the external costs associated with conventional mineral fertilisers can be fully recovered. The total replacement value of biosolids is the sum of the values of the increased yields and the replaced external costs. For digested cake this is equal to £2.64/tonne and for granules £10.85/tonne; in both cases the replacement value exceeds the external costs of biosolids. These costs and benefits should be taken into account in the development of environmental policy related to wastewater treatment.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
