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Project Code [2012-EH-MS-13]
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Project title
Measurement and modelling of health impacts arising from the landspreading of biosolids
Primary Funding Agency
Environmental Protection Agency
Co-Funding Organisation(s)
n/a
Lead Organisation
National University of Ireland Galway (NUIG)
Lead Applicant
Mark Healy
Project Abstract
The land application of biosolids, the by-product of urban wastewater treatment, provides a sustainable and beneficial alternative to landfilling, and is in line with national and EU policy, which warns against over-reliance on landfill and supports resource efficiency and re-use of waste. In Ireland, guidelines governing the application of biosolids to land do not consider the relationship between biosolids application rate and surface runoff of nutrients, suspended sediment, pathogens, emerging contaminants, or metals; nor do they consider the dose-response relationship between associated hazards and human health. Therefore, the aims of this study are to: (1) undertake a thorough literature review of the spreading of biosolids on land to include analysis of potential impacts on environmental and human health (2) examine, under controlled conditions in the laboratory and field, the impact of the landspreading of biosolids (on grassland) on surface runoff/subsurface drainage/shallow groundwater of nutrients, solids, metals, pathogens and some specified EC identified in the literature review (either natural toxins, veterinary medicine, or hormones arising from animals), when spread based on N and P application rates (3) to model and conduct a risk assessment of potential hazards of human health concern, using data generated in 1 and 2 above. Research capacity: This project is a new research collaboration between two research groups NUIG/Teagasc and UCD. This project will broaden the knowledge base of work in this area, create synergies, and will foster new collaborations and research links into the future. Policy: Legislation governing the application of biosolids to land does not consider surface runoff of nutrients, SS, pathogens, emerging contaminants, metals, or impact on human health. Publications: peer reviewed journal and conference papers, reports for EPA and policy makers; guidance documents for farmers and industry.
Grant Approved
�179,774.52
Research Hub
Healthy Environment
Research Theme
Environment and Human Health
Initial Projected Completion Date
01/04/2015