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13 August 2012

AgriSan experts: Recycling phosphorous is not enough

Sewerage

Photo by: Steve Snodgrass

Swedish sewerage sludge treatment policy has a one-sided focus on phosphorous recycling. But nitrogen, potassium and sulfur are more important in both economic and environmental regards, says SIANI-associated researchers in a recent debate article in Dagens Nyheter.

The article has led to some discussion on plant nutrient recycling and its overall importance for fertilizer use and environmental goals. In a final reply on August 3, the researchers again stress that high amounts of mineral fertilizers end up in Swedish sewerage water (20% of N, 50% of P, and 55% of S), and that there is a high value in recycling not only phosphorous, but all these nutrients.

Read both articles here (in Swedish):

  • http://www.dn.se/debatt/atervinn-fler-naringsamnen-an-fosfor-i-avloppsvattnet
  • http://www.dn.se/debatt/manga-skal-atervinna-mer-an-fosfor

Photo credit: Steve Snodgrass

Original debate article
Final reply