VI-2-Utilization of Sludge for Sustainable Development of Society.

Abstract

Unsustainable trend in waste generation is a cause for concern because the generation of waste can be a symptom of environmentally inefficient use of resources. Therefore, development of new technologies to recycle and convert waste materials into reusable materials is critically important for protection of our environment and sustainable development of our society. With the current emphasis on environmental health and water pollution issues, there is an increasing awareness of the need to dispose of wastewater safely and beneficially. Properly planned use of sewage effluent and its by-products alleviates a number of environmental problems. Large quantities of sludge are produced in India and disposed of by landfilling. Space limitations on existing landfill sites and problem of waste stabilization have prompted investigations into alternative reuse techniques and disposal routes for sludge. A more reasonable approach is to view the sludge as a resource that can be reused. This paper highlights the potential of dried sludge, sludge pellets and sludge ash in various construction materials. This paper provides a review of the various application areas for the water and sewage treatment plant sludge. The percentage utilization of sludge in various fields is highlighted and comparison of sludge usage in various construction materials is made to identify possible future areas of research to fully utilize these methods of sludge reuse and disposal alternatives.