The pursuit for exceptional quality biosolids

WRRFs are already engaged in the concept that biosolids are a major resource commodity and are seeking to upgrade their biosolids treatment systems to achieve Class A or higher/exceptional quality biosolids. However, public acceptance is still a major hurdle biosolids managers are facing. The most significant issues the public has with biosolids are odors and the perceived safety of biosolids, in particular concerns with pathogens. This session will highlight findings from WE&RF projects which involve research on odors, pathogen and indicator organism inactivation, and regrowth using high-tech biosolids technologies (i.e. thermal hydrolysis) to low-tech biosolids treatment methods (i.e. lagoon storage). The findings point to attributes of biosolids quality that affect horticultural and agricultural uses and that influence customer and community interest. Branding biosolids products and the use of social media yield additional value to the bisoolids as a recovered resource. The session will conclude with a panel discussion with biosolids experts to debate the costs and benefits of treatment technologies that exceeds 40 CFR Part 503 minimum regulatory standards.