Agricultural use of sewage sludge and its regulation

Abstract

Sewage sludge is waste for which the most positive outlet must be sought whilst, at the same time, making use of its qualities. In view of its organic matter and other nutrients content, it may be thought that the best system is to use it for agricultural purposes, although the load of heavy metals it may bear with it proves to be the main obstacle involved. Since it is a heterogeneous material whose composition depends on various factors, the content of such metals in sewage sludge will be highly variable. Thus it becomes necessary to always analyze sewage sludge before directing it towards agricultural use and also to know the heavy metal content of the soil where it is applied already so as to adjust this agronomical practice to the limits as set by current legislation in force. The provisions of law must also be complied with when certain substances deemed toxic or dangerous are present in sewage sludge. The purpose of all this is to prevent possible soil pollution and other kinds of risk involved in accumulation in the food chain.