Gross, disgusting, nasty, what is that thing? These words come to mind when we see or think about poop. Bio-solids are a semi-solid material that contain a nutrient-rich substance that is left behind from the sewage treatment process. Many of our sustainable agricultural farmers today use this nutrient-rich substance in order fertilize their crops and not to mention complete a natural cycle in the environment. Using bio-solids promotes waste water plants to produce capable high quality bio-solids, a resource farmers should take opportunity of. Recycling bio-solids benefits farmers by reducing production costs, improves soil fertility, stimulate plant growth, and betters the soil structure . I could see why farmers benefit from production costs because according to (Ontario's ministry of agriculture and food) "as a fertilizer equivalent, the nitrogen and phosphorous in bio-solids has an approximate value of $250/hectare". Recycling bio-solids to land is also an environmentally friendly choice because it doesn't promote landfill disposal. Although, bio-solids do contain pathogens, flame retardants, PCB's, these constituents are in low in
concentrations after the sewage treatment process. Nevertheless, "the use of these materials in the production of crops for human consumption
when practiced in accordance with existing federal guidelines and regulations, presents negligible risk to the consumer, crop production, and the environment" (National Academy of Science). In other words if farmers carefully monitor, apply, and follow the regulations, there will be no risk towards the consumer and environment. Of course there is a possibility that sludge won't get properly processed and could pose a health hazard, but this is all in the hands of the treatment facilities
It is true that when poop is the subject, people automatically turn away and neglect all of the wonders that poop could provide our environment. Bio-solids are sustaining our agriculture, helping our environment, and supporting our farmers through financial problems. Today we already bio-solid grown produce, and we're living proof that there are no health risks from using bio-solids as fertilizer. Hopefully we continue to recycle bio-solids into our land instead of promoting waste diversion.
Sources
Bio-solids: Fertilizer or pollution?, Lynchburg college, 8 June, 2011 <http://www.sencer.net/Outreach/pdfs/DCSymposium08/Posters/LUbiosolids.pdf>
Sewage bio-solids: A valuable nutrient source, Ontario ministry of agriculture, 8 June,2011 <http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/nm/nasm/sewbiobroch.htm>
FAQ - Bio-solids, Canadian water and waste water association, 8 June, 2011
Frequently asked Bio-solids questions, Waste management and processors, 8 June, 2011
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sses related to the gastrointestinal tracts with speed and precision without harming the patient. In Canada, York central hospital is the first hospital in Canada to use this intriguing piece of technology. Although, it do