Sustainable Management and Advanced Techniques of Micropollutants Through Circular Economy
摘要
Sustainable management of micropollutants in wastewater is a pressing environmental issue, driven by the rising presence of pharmaceuticals, hormones, pesticides, and industrial chemicals. These micropollutants pose significant risks to human health and ecosystems. The conventional treatment processes are often inadequate. This chapter explores sustainable approaches to micropollutant management within a circular economy (CE) framework, which emphasizes waste minimization and resource efficiency. Anaerobic digestion is highlighted as a key technology, converting sewage sludge into biogas while stabilizing organic matter for safe land application. Membrane-based technologies are discussed for their efficiency in removing micropollutants, but their high costs prevent their widespread adoption. A novel approach using activated carbon (AC) derived from sewage sludge via pyrolysis is presented as a sustainable solution, effectively capturing micropollutants like PAHs, PFASs, and PBDEs. Simultaneously, the by-products of this process, including bio-oil and non-condensable gases, are utilized for energy recovery, making this an efficient waste-to-resource solution within a CE framework. In addition to technical solutions, the chapter emphasizes the importance of policy frameworks and collaboration among governments, industries, and communities to scale up the adoption of CE practices. It explores existing regulations and strategies for managing micropollutants in marine and sewage sludge, focusing on energy recovery. National policies, and international efforts such as the G20's initiatives to prevent pollution are discussed.