Composting municipal wastewater sludge and garden waste – pilot project
About this good practice
Park waste is shredded and mixed with sludge in a certain proportion (3 parts green waste: 1 part sludge) using a frontal loader. 200 cubic meter heaps are formed with aeration tubes at the base and temperature sensors are inserted and connected to a computer, so the process is partly automated. The heap is covered with the GORE® Cover semi-permeable membrane, to prevent moisture and heat loss, avoid release of unpleasant smells and leaching by rainwater. By using this technology, composting time is reduced from 6 months to 8 weeks.
In the first phase the technology was demonstrated and the resulting compost was applied on public land (green areas).
In the second phase, trial plots were set up to study the effect of the compost on different crops. It is estimated that in a couple of years the company will be able to bring a range of products on the market, namely different types of compost for flowers, vegetables etc.
The main stakeholders are the public service company and Mioveni municipality.
Expert opinion
Wastewater treatment plants produce substantial amounts of sludge, a nutrient-rich byproduct that is often viewed as waste. Traditionally, this sludge has been disposed of through methods like storage or incineration, which can be costly and environmentally harmful. Composting is gaining recognition as a sustainable solution for managing biodegradable waste, including wastewater sludge.To effectively compost residual sludge, it is typically mixed with bulking agents such as green waste or agricultural residues to achieve a balanced carbon-nitrogen ratio. This mixture then undergoes controlled aerobic decomposition, which may be followed by additional treatment. The result is a stabilized end product that is both nutrient-rich and free of pathogens, suitable for use as a soil amendment or fertilizer in various agricultural and landscaping applications. By adopting composting practices, communities can lower disposal costs, cut greenhouse gas emissions, and lessen the environmental impact associated with sludge management. This good practice can be transferred to other EU regions.
Resources needed
Evidence of success
- Large amounts of biowaste are no longer landfilled and are returned to green areas (circularity)
- Reduced storage time on the platform / less storage capacity needed using the membrane technology
- High quality compost, tested for pathogens and pollutants
- Expected revenues in the coming years from compost commercialisation
- Potential for training, sharing knowledge and creating new “green jobs”
Potential for learning or transfer
Further information
Website
Good practice owner
You can contact the good practice owner below for more detailed information.
Municipal Services for Mioveni Community / Servicii Edilitare pentru Comunitate Mioveni