A Framework for Sustainable Planning and Decision-Making on Resource Recovery from Wastewater: Showcase for São Paulo Megacity

Abstract

Currently, it is important to develop strategic frameworks to support the selection of sustainable resource recovery solutions. This study applies a new framework for planning, implementation, and assessment of resource recovery strategies for a full-scale wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) in São Paulo megacity. The framework comprises several steps based on case study-specific data and information from current literature. Data were collected from various sources: a survey with a wastewater treatment utility, national and regional databases, and review of local regulations and international literature. Treatment configuration, wastewater and by-products composition, potential demand (for water, energy, and phosphorus), stakeholder identification, and local legislation were thoroughly discussed regarding decision-making on resource recovery. Scenario analysis was used to explore suitable nutrient and energy recovery measures based on indicators. Biogas recovery and sewage sludge composting showed more favorable conditions due to similar experiences in the area and robust legislation. The proposed framework is a simplified tool, and its application can support managers to get information on resource recovery and how to plan such initiatives in easier ways to facilitate wiser decision-making, and better operation and management. The results on framework use and refinement can guide potential applications in other contexts and stimulate public policy formulation and further research.

Design and Performance Evaluation of Decentralized Wastewater Treatment and Reuse System for Urban and Rural places

“…The removal of suspended solids occurs predominantly in the filtration process. The similar kind of results were reported by Chrispim and Nolasco, 2017, they found about 80-90% removal of SS concentration. They also conclude that removal highly depends on the working of aeration system.…”

Wastewater management decision‐making: A literature review and synthesis

“…While a diverse range of decision-makers, stakeholders, and experts often participate in the decisionmaking process, the methods described in the literature often rely on assessments by experts, with the decisionmakers and stakeholders not clearly identified (Table S1 in Supporting Information). Consequently, these roles are often conflated in the literature, and most studies present rankings of alternatives that reflect the opinions of stakeholders or experts rather than decision-makers (Arroyo & Molinos-Senante, 2018;Chrispim et al, 2020;De Gisi et al, 2014;Gherghel et al, 2020;Lienert et al, 2011;Lizot et al, 2020;Strapasson & dos Santos, 2020). Kalbar et al (2012Kalbar et al ( , 2015Kalbar et al ( , 2016 ranked alternatives using weights established by the researcher without the participation of decision-makers and stakeholders.…”

Application of Data Resource Allocation in Economic Management Information System

“…The application requirements of this system mainly include the following four aspects: realizing the information sharing and sharing mechanism between various economic management departments and providing real-time and accurate economic data for the healthy development of the whole province's macroeconomy; improving the informatization level of economic management and improving the efficiency of economic management of the whole society; building a decision-making support system for macroeconomic and social management and regulation and enhancing the accuracy and effectiveness of economic decision-making; and, at the same time, enhancing the service and information release for the whole society [ 14 ].…”