Survey of Literature and Experience on the Disposal of Sewage Sludge on Land

by

Peter J Doyle

B.Sc., Agricultural Chemistry (Wye/Imperial);

M.Sc  Soil Science (Guelph, Ontario)

M.I Soil Science

J.N Lester

R. Perry

Public Health and Water Resource Engineering Department, Department of Civil Engineering, Imperial College, London.

Summary

Literature relating to the application of sewage sludge to land has been reviewed. The importance of sewage sludge as an aid to agricultural production is considered. The effects of inorganic contaminants present in sewage sludge on soils and on crop production and assimilation into food crops is examined.

Experience of sewage sludge disposal to land in the United Kingdom and present recommendations for the utilisation of sewage sludge on agricultural land are discussed. The report draws conclusions from investigations undertaken and contains recommendations for the future practice of sewage sludge disposal to agricultural land.

The review was undertaken for the UK Department of the Environment from 1976-1978.  Certain material in this report has been edited or omitted so as to protect confidentiality where necessary. 203 scientific references are included in the bibliography.

A report detailing significant developments since 1978 is available from the principal author. Details from: Peter Doyle, Ecobody Limited, 49 New Road, Wootton Bassett, Wiltshire SN4 7DG, UK. Telephone +44(0)1793 855248; Fax +44(0)1793 855261 E-Mail peter@ecobody.com