Agricultural Utilisation of Sewage Sludge in the U.K.

The paper describes the overall problems facing the UK water industry in the disposal of sewage sludge and gives relevant statistics. The greatest proportion of sludge (about 45%) is used in agriculture and the paper continues by describing national policies and practices which, if followed, will ensure that a valuable resource is recycled safely without damage to the environment or public health. Guidelines issued by the Department of the Environment (National Water Council Committee) are reviewed and summarised. Operational aspects of the services provided to agriculture by the water industry are also discussed.