Calculator tool for determining greenhouse gas emissions for biosolids processing and end use

Environ Sci Technol. 2010 Dec 15;44(24):9509-15. doi: 10.1021/es101210k. Epub 2010 Nov 16.

Abstract

A greenhouse gas (GHG) calculator tool (Biosolids Emissions Assessment Model, BEAM) was developed for the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment to allow municipalities to estimate GHG emissions from biosolids management. The tool was developed using data from peer reviewed literature and municipalities. GHG emissions from biosolids processing through final end use/disposal were modeled. Emissions from nine existing programs in Canada were estimated using the model. The program that involved dewatering followed by combustion resulted in the highest GHG emissions (Mg CO(2)e 100 Mg(-1) biosolids (dry wt.). The programs that had digestion followed by land application resulted in the lowest emissions (-26 and -23 Mg CO(2)e 100 Mg(-1) biosolids (dry wt.). Transportation had relatively minor effects on overall emissions. The greatest areas of uncertainty in the model include N(2)O emissions from land application and biosolids processing. The model suggests that targeted use of biosolids and optimizing processes to avoid CH(4) and N(2)O emissions can result in significant GHG savings.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Air Pollutants / analysis*
  • Carbon Dioxide / analysis
  • Environmental Monitoring / methods*
  • Greenhouse Effect
  • Methane / analysis
  • Models, Chemical
  • Nitrogen Dioxide / analysis
  • Waste Disposal, Fluid / methods*

Substances

  • Air Pollutants
  • Carbon Dioxide
  • Methane
  • Nitrogen Dioxide