The biosolids resulting from the sludge treatment from sewage treatment plants improve soil conditioning and are rich in nutrients. However, despite the benefits to soil and plants, as well as the sustainable appeal, the agricultural use of biosolids in Brazil is still not widespread. In this Technical Note (TN), the objective is to present some Brazilian experiences with biosolids in the light of relevant legislation, as well as to discuss aspects and potential related uses. Paraná and São Paulo states are the main references in agricultural use, with experiences of sanitization with alkaline stabilization and composting. In this TN the criteria for the use of biosolids are presented, according to the new CONAMA Resolution 498/2020, as well as the challenges related to the agricultural sector and public acceptance. Public policies to support rural producers for the application of biosolids are also discussed, to promote transformation of a rich by-product of sewage treatment into a resource for agricultural use, in a vision of circular economy.
The use of sewage sludge in soil is a environmentally sustainable practice, compatible with the Brazilian Policy of Solid Wastes. Due to its content of organic compounds and nutrients, the sludge is beneficial to the physical, chemical and biological soil properties and to the development of plants. However, since it may contain chemical and microbiological pollutants, it has to be carefully used by following criteria and procedures concerning the protection of the environment and public health. In 2020, Brazil approved Resolution 498 of CONAMA for the definition of criteria and procedures for production and application of biosolids in soil. Besides its agricultural use, this Resolution covers other uses, such as the recuperation of degraded areas. For the use of sludge on land, it needs to be processed in a Sludge Management Unit licensed by a local environmental agency. Depending on the criteria in the Resolution, biosolids are classified under Classes A and B for their microbiological quality, and under Classes 1 and 2 for their chemical aspects.
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