Resaerch and Innovation agenda for the recycling of nitrogen and phosphorus in wastewater

Important results from the project

There has been an increased focus on nutrients recycling specifically in Europe over the last years. This paper gives an overview of the situation in nine countries regarding status, policies and future perspectives in the area of phosphorus and nitrogen recycling from wastewater and sewage sludge. The study includes the situation in Sweden, Germany, Switzerland, Denmark, Netherlands, Great Britain, Norway, Finland and Canada.

Expected long term effects

A general observation is that the current handling of sewage sludge in each country is more dependent on local conditions than a more scientific evaluation of different opportunities. The explanations can rather be found in the structure of the agriculture (the access of manure or the access of agricultural land convenient for spreading sewage sludge), traditions and attitude to incineration, possibilities of alternative use of sludge (cover of mines and landfills), debate of sewage sludge or other reasons.

Approach and implementation

The information was received through interviews with national coordinators complemented with information from literature and other sources. Topics were included: -Main management of sewage sludge and phosphorus extraction today -Expected future management of sewage sludge and phosphorus extraction, 5-10 years ahead -Experiences of nitrogen extraction from sewage -Experiences of source separated sewage systems -National targets, regulations and financial instruments to promote nutrients recycling from sewage -Ongoing research, development and innovation activities