IS THERE NEED FOR AN UPDATED SLUDGE DIRECTIVE? A RAPID EVIDENCE ASSESSMENT

Pavel Chyška

Master's thesis

Abstract:

Agricultural re-use of sludge, as a way of sludge management, is a common practice in many EU countries. Despite its inherent qualities, sludge may contain potentially toxic elements (PTEs), which are regulated by the European legislation. The current European sludge legislation sets out the limit concentrations for certain heavy metals in sludges and soils for agricultural purposes. There are concerns that the Sludge Directive 86/278/EC may be out- dated since it has been in place for almost 30 years. Over time, advances in legislation regarding drinking water quality legislation have lead to an increase in sludge production. Additionally, the ban on disposal of sludge at sea has contributed to the problem of sludge management. The aim of this work was to analyse pertinent evidence related to the adverse effects of sludge application to agricultural soils and to determine whether there is a need for an updated Sludge Directive or UK update. Code of Practice For Agriculture Use of Sewage Sludge provided the basis to measure appropriateness of UK legislation regarding the sludge application. A systematic rapid evidence assessment approach (REA) was employed to obtain pertinent scientific studies, which were used to pose case scenarios building on a qualitatively structured what-if technique (SWIFT). Due to the complexity of the topic, the work is focused on evidence regarding one essential metal (Cu), one non-essential metal (Cd) and an organic compound (Bisphenol A). No significant evidence of harm arising from direct application of biosolids within the current limits were identified; however, the research highlighted areas that need to be addressed and appropriate measures put in place to reduce future potential risks arising from the application of sludges to agricultural land.

Keywords

Copper, Bisphenol A, Biosolids, Cadmium, Heavy Metals, Agriculture

Language used: English

Date on which the thesis was submitted / produced: 12. 4. 2016

Thesis defence

• Supervisor: Ing. Petr Procházka, MSc Ph.D.

Czech University of Life Sciences Prague

Faculty of Economics and Management

Master programme / field:
Economics and Management / Economics and Management