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Calzone A, Baldoni E, Cabassi G, Toscani G, Gasparini A, Casaletta E, Picchi V. Sewage sludge amendment of rice as a potential alternative to mineral fertilizer: Analyses of physiological, biochemical and molecular mechanisms of plant response. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY : PPB 2024; 208:108527. [PMID: 38484682 DOI: 10.1016/j.plaphy.2024.108527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
Sewage sludge (SS) disposal poses environmental concerns, yet its organic matter, macro- and micronutrients, make it potentially beneficial for enhancing soil quality and crop yield. This study focuses on three types of SS: "R10" (SS1), which is commonly used in agricultural practices, and two environmentally friendlier options (SS2 and SS3), as alternatives to mineral fertilizer (urea) for rice cultivation. A pot experiment was conducted to investigate the ecophysiological, biochemical, and molecular responses of rice at three different growth stages. SS application led to a significant increase in biomass production (particularly SS3), along with increased nitrogen (N) levels. Enhanced chlorophyll content was observed in SS-treated plants, especially during inflorescence emergence (with the highest content in SS3 plants). At the ecophysiological and biochemical levels, SS treatments did not adversely affect plant health, as evidenced by unchanged values of maximal PSII photochemical efficiency and malondialdehyde by-products. At biochemical and gene expression levels, antioxidant enzyme activities showed transient variations, likely related to physiological adjustments rather than oxidative stress. Ascorbic acid and glutathione did not significantly vary. This study concludes that the use of SS in soil can be a viable alternative fertilizer for rice plants, with positive effects on biomass, chlorophyll content, and no adverse effects on plant health. Among the tested SSs, SS3 showed the most positive effect, even compared to commercial fertilizer. These results suggest that SS application could improve rice yield while addressing environmental concerns surrounding SS disposal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonella Calzone
- CREA Research Centre for Engineering and Agro-Food Processing, via G. Venezian 26, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Elena Baldoni
- National Research Council (CNR), Institute of Agricultural Biology and Biotechnology (IBBA), via E. Bassini 15, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Giovanni Cabassi
- CREA Research Centre for Animal Production and Aquaculture, viale Piacenza 29, 26900, Lodi, Italy
| | - Giada Toscani
- CREA Research Centre for Animal Production and Aquaculture, viale Piacenza 29, 26900, Lodi, Italy
| | - Andrea Gasparini
- CREA Research Centre for Animal Production and Aquaculture, viale Piacenza 29, 26900, Lodi, Italy
| | - Elisa Casaletta
- Agromatrici Srl-Gruppo Fratelli Visconti, Strada Vicinale della Bellaria snc, 27020, Tromello (PV), Italy
| | - Valentina Picchi
- CREA Research Centre for Engineering and Agro-Food Processing, via G. Venezian 26, 20133, Milano, Italy.
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Patra M, Pandey B, Dubey SK. Prevalence of diverse antimicrobial resistance genes and bacteria in sewage treatment plant-derived sludge environment. FEMS MICROBES 2024; 5:xtae004. [PMID: 38463555 PMCID: PMC10923292 DOI: 10.1093/femsmc/xtae004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) contamination in the environment is one of the most significant worldwide threats of the 21st century. Since sludge is heavily exposed to diverse contaminants, including pharmaceuticals, the inhabitant bacterial population is expected to exhibit resistance to antimicrobial agents. In this study, sewage treatment plant (STP) sludge samples were analyzed to assess the antibiotic-resistant bacterial population, abundance of AMR genes (ermF, qnrS, Sul1, blaGES, blaCTX-M, and blaNDM), and mobile genetic elements (intl1 and IS26). Out of 16, six bacterial isolates exhibited resistance to 13 antibiotics with a high multiple antibiotic resistance index (MARI) (0.93) and high metal tolerance. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction showed the abundance of target genes ranging from 6.6 × 103 to 6.5 × 108 copies g-1 sludge. The overall outcome reveals that STP sludge comprised varied multidrug-resistant bacterial populations. It will give insights into the functions of heavy metals and biofilm development in the selection and spread of AMR genes and the associated bacteria. Therefore, the application of sludge needs proper screening for AMR and metal contamination prior to its countless applications. This study will contribute immensely to the risk analysis of STP effluents on environmental health, including control of AMR transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mrinmoy Patra
- Molecular Ecology Laboratory, Department of Botany, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, India
| | - Bhavana Pandey
- Molecular Ecology Laboratory, Department of Botany, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, India
| | - Suresh Kumar Dubey
- Molecular Ecology Laboratory, Department of Botany, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, India
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Žaltauskaitė J, Kniuipytė I, Praspaliauskas M. Earthworm Eisenia fetida potential for sewage sludge amended soil valorization by heavy metal remediation and soil quality improvement. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 424:127316. [PMID: 34583161 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.127316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/19/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Sewage sludge reuse in agriculture is increasing, however it can be an important route for contaminants to enter the environment. The aim of this study was to evaluate earthworm Eisenia fetida capability to reduce heavy metal content in the sewage sludge (SS) amended soil and increase soil fertility in terms of soil nutrients content. Adult earthworms were introduced into aged SS amended soil (0-200 Mg ha-1) and left for 65 days. Earthworms have stabilized soil pH and accelerated organic matter mineralization. The concentrations of most heavy metals during the vermiremediation sharply decreased, K and Mg decreased to a moderate extent, whereas Ca content has increased. The highest removal efficiency was detected for Ni, Co and Mn (> 80%), bioconcentration factors were as follows Zn > Co > Cu > Ni > Mn > Cr. The content of major nutrients (S, P) was substantially higher compared to the initial values. The most efficient remediation and soil quality improvement was achieved under the doses of 25-50 Mg ha-1. Higher (≥ 100 Mg ha-1) doses might restrict this technique application because of earthworm mortality and retarded growth. Overall, the study shows that vermiremediation might be a sustainable technique for ecological stabilization of SS amended soil and converting to usable for agricultural needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jūratė Žaltauskaitė
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Vytautas Magnus University, Universiteto 10, Akademija, Kaunas, Lithuania; Laboratory of Heat-Equipment Research and Testing, Lithuanian Energy Institute, Breslaujos 3, Kaunas, Lithuania.
| | - Inesa Kniuipytė
- Laboratory of Heat-Equipment Research and Testing, Lithuanian Energy Institute, Breslaujos 3, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Marius Praspaliauskas
- Laboratory of Heat-Equipment Research and Testing, Lithuanian Energy Institute, Breslaujos 3, Kaunas, Lithuania
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4
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Sytar O, Ghosh S, Malinska H, Zivcak M, Brestic M. Physiological and molecular mechanisms of metal accumulation in hyperaccumulator plants. PHYSIOLOGIA PLANTARUM 2021; 173:148-166. [PMID: 33219524 DOI: 10.1111/ppl.13285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Most of the heavy metals (HMs), and metals/metalloids are released into the nature either by natural phenomenon or anthropogenic activities. Being sessile organisms, plants are constantly exposed to HMs in the environment. The metal non-hyperaccumulating plants are susceptible to excess metal concentrations. They tend to sequester metals in their root vacuoles by forming complexes with metal ligands, as a detoxification strategy. In contrast, the metal-hyperaccumulating plants have adaptive intrinsic regulatory mechanisms to hyperaccumulate or sequester excess amounts of HMs into their above-ground tissues rather than accumulating them in roots. They have unique abilities to successfully carry out normal physiological functions without showing any visible stress symptoms unlike metal non-hyperaccumulators. The unique abilities of accumulating excess metals in hyperaccumulators partly owes to constitutive overexpression of metal transporters and ability to quickly translocate HMs from root to shoot. Various metal ligands also play key roles in metal hyperaccumulating plants. These metal hyperaccumulating plants can be used in metal contaminated sites to clean-up soils. Exploiting the knowledge of natural populations of metal hyperaccumulators complemented with cutting-edge biotechnological tools can be useful in the future. The present review highlights the recent developments in physiological and molecular mechanisms of metal accumulation of hyperaccumulator plants in the lights of metal ligands and transporters. The contrasting mechanisms of metal accumulation between hyperaccumulators and non-hyperaccumulators are thoroughly compared. Moreover, uses of different metal hyperaccumulators for phytoremediation purposes are also discussed in detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oksana Sytar
- Department of Plant Physiology, Slovak University of Agriculture, Nitra, Slovakia
- Department of Plant Biology, Institute of Biology and Medicine, Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Supriya Ghosh
- Department of Botany, University of Kalyani, Kalyani, Nadia-741235, India
| | - Hana Malinska
- Department of Biology, Jan Evangelista Purkyne University, Usti nad Labem, Czech Republic
| | - Marek Zivcak
- Department of Plant Physiology, Slovak University of Agriculture, Nitra, Slovakia
| | - Marian Brestic
- Department of Plant Physiology, Slovak University of Agriculture, Nitra, Slovakia
- Department of Botany and Plant Physiology, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
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Evaluation of newly reclaimed areas in Saudi Arabia for cultivation of the leguminous crop Phaseolus vulgaris under sewage sludge amendment. J Verbrauch Lebensm 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s00003-020-01311-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Tesfahun W, Zerfu A, Shumuye M, Abera G, Kidane A, Astatkie T. Effects of brewery sludge on soil chemical properties, trace metal availability in soil and uptake by wheat crop, and bioaccumulation factor. Heliyon 2021; 7:e05989. [PMID: 33511296 PMCID: PMC7815806 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e05989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2020] [Revised: 10/11/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Brewery sludge is the solid residue obtained from agro-industrial processing. It is possible to utilize the waste products in an environment friendly and economical way to replace mineral fertilizer due to its sufficient macronutrients and organic carbon content. However, its use is limited due to heavy metal concentration that may contaminate crops and then the food chain. The objective of this study was to assess the suitability of brewery sludge for using to grow bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) by determining the effect of brewery sludge (7 levels: 0, 3, 6, 9, 12 and 15 t ha−1, and 1 recommended rate of NPS only) on soil chemical properties, bioaccumulation factor, and heavy metal absorption in the soil and in the bread wheat grain using a Randomized Blocks Design field experiment conducted at two sites during the 2018 cropping season. Amendment of brewery sludge at a rate of 15 t ha−1 led to substantial variations in soil chemical properties except for Mg2+ content at both study sites. Concentrations of the studied heavy metals (except Zn in the soil) increased with increasing brewery sludge application rate in the soil and in the wheat grain. However, heavy metal uptake by wheat grain and heavy metal concentration in the soil were below the allowed limits. The bioaccumulation factor in the wheat grain was <1.0 for the studied heavy metals. The findings of the study suggest that brewery sludge at a rate of 15 t ha−1 could be recommended due to its high nourishing effect for soil and for promoting nutritional quality of wheat crop and is safe for human consumption. However, since sludge application may lead to increase in the amount of trace metals in the soil-plant system, a long-term study is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wakjira Tesfahun
- College of Agriculture and Natural Resource, Raya University, Maychew, Ethiopia
| | - Ambachew Zerfu
- College of Agriculture and Natural Resource, Raya University, Maychew, Ethiopia
| | - Meresa Shumuye
- College of Agriculture and Natural Resource, Raya University, Maychew, Ethiopia
| | - Gezai Abera
- College of Agriculture and Natural Resource, Raya University, Maychew, Ethiopia
| | - Asmeret Kidane
- College of Agriculture and Natural Resource, Raya University, Maychew, Ethiopia
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Eid EM, El-Bebany AF, Taher MA, Alrumman SA, Galal TM, Shaltout KH, Sewelam NA, Ahmed MT. Heavy Metal Bioaccumulation, Growth Characteristics, and Yield of Pisum sativum L. Grown in Agricultural Soil-Sewage Sludge Mixtures. PLANTS 2020; 9:plants9101300. [PMID: 33019617 PMCID: PMC7601226 DOI: 10.3390/plants9101300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The application of sewage sludge (SS) in agriculture is an alternative disposal method for wastewater recycling and soil fertilization. This study evaluated heavy metal bioaccumulation, growth, and yield of Pisum sativum (pea) grown in agricultural soil amended with SS at rates of 0, 10, 20, 30, and 40 g/kg. The results show that root, shoot, pod length, biomass, and number of leaves and pods increased with SS amendments of 10 and 20 g/kg, while rates declined at 30 and 40 g/kg. SS had greater salinity and organic content than the soil. Heavy metals in the postharvest soil samples increased for all SS application rates except Fe and Mo. The significant increase in Cd content started at the lowest amendment rate 10 g/kg; for Co, Mn, and Pb, the significant increase was detected at the highest amendment rate (40 g/kg). Generally, all heavy metals increased significantly in portions of P. sativum except Cd in the shoot. At an amendment rate of 10 g/kg, Co in the shoot and root, Cr in the fruit, Cu in the root, Fe in the fruit, Mn in the shoot and fruit, Mo in the fruit, Pb in the shoot, and Zn in the fruit were elevated significantly. In contrast, the concentrations of Cd in the fruit, Cr in the root, Cu in the shoot, Fe in the shoot and root, Ni in the fruit and root, Pb in the fruit and root, and Zn in the root significantly increased only at the highest rate of 40 g/kg. The highest regression R2 was 0.927 for Mn in pods and the lowest was 0.154 for Cd in shoots. Bioaccumulation and translocation factors were > 1 for Mo and the bioaccumulation of Pb was >1. SS could be used for pea fertilization but only at rates below 20 g/kg to avoid environmental and health hazards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ebrahem M. Eid
- Biology Department, College of Science, King Khalid University, Abha 61321, Saudi Arabia; (E.M.E.); (M.A.T.); (S.A.A.); (M.T.A.)
- Botany Department, Faculty of Science, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafr El-Sheikh 33516, Egypt
| | - Ahmed F. El-Bebany
- Plant Pathology Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Alexandria University, El-Shatby, Alexandria 21545, Egypt
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +20-1123158526
| | - Mostafa A. Taher
- Biology Department, College of Science, King Khalid University, Abha 61321, Saudi Arabia; (E.M.E.); (M.A.T.); (S.A.A.); (M.T.A.)
- Botany Department, Faculty of Science, Aswan University, Aswan 81528, Egypt
| | - Sulaiman A. Alrumman
- Biology Department, College of Science, King Khalid University, Abha 61321, Saudi Arabia; (E.M.E.); (M.A.T.); (S.A.A.); (M.T.A.)
| | - Tarek M. Galal
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Helwan University, Cairo 11795, Egypt;
- Biology Deprtment, College of Science, Taif University, Taif 21974, Saudi Arabia
| | - Kamal H. Shaltout
- Botany Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, Egypt; (K.H.S.); (N.A.S.)
| | - Nasser A. Sewelam
- Botany Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, Egypt; (K.H.S.); (N.A.S.)
| | - Mohamed T. Ahmed
- Biology Department, College of Science, King Khalid University, Abha 61321, Saudi Arabia; (E.M.E.); (M.A.T.); (S.A.A.); (M.T.A.)
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Cristina G, Camelin E, Pugliese M, Tommasi T, Fino D. Evaluation of anaerobic digestates from sewage sludge as a potential solution for improvement of soil fertility. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2019; 99:122-134. [PMID: 31476637 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2019.08.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2019] [Revised: 07/09/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Sewage sludge production in European countries has widely raised in the last decade and its fate is currently landfilling, incinerators, composting or land application. To explore its agronomic potential, the main target of this work is to understand the effects of anaerobic digestates from sewage sludge (SSAD). To this aim, four different SSADs (two liquids and two dewatered) were characterized. On the liquid ones, Germination Index was evaluated through a plate bioassay with Lepidium sativum L. seeds; low concentrations of SSAD (2.5%) improved GI in one case, while at higher concentrations phytotoxic effects occurred in both. Then, pot experiments were set in climate chamber with Cucumis sativus L. grown for 30 days on two different substrates: a sandy, alkaline and poor soil, and peat substrate. All SSADs and a mineral fertilizer were used at three increasing dosages: 85, 170, 255 kg of nitrogen per hectare (kg N/ha). Results in terms of germination, dry biomass, chlorophyll content, net photosynthesis, stomatal conductance, CO2 concentration in substomatal cavity and root development were compared to a not treated control. All treatments gave results significantly higher or similar to control on all the parameters evaluated. Moreover, the intermediate nitrogen dosage (170 kg N/ha) generally showed the highest results compared to other dosages, especially for dewatered SSADs. All these results were much more evident for cucumber plants grown on an the alkaline, sandy and poor soil than on peat substrate, such demonstrating that SSADs have a fertilizing effect for plants growing on this kind of soil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulio Cristina
- Department of Applied Science and Technology (DISAT), Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca degli Abruzzi 24, 10129 Torino (TO), Italy
| | - Enrico Camelin
- Department of Applied Science and Technology (DISAT), Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca degli Abruzzi 24, 10129 Torino (TO), Italy
| | - Massimo Pugliese
- AGROINNOVA - Centre of Competence for the Innovation in the Agro-Environmental Sector, University of Torino, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, 10095 Grugliasco (TO), Italy; Department of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences (DISAFA), University of Torino, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, 10095 Grugliasco (TO), Italy.
| | - Tonia Tommasi
- Department of Applied Science and Technology (DISAT), Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca degli Abruzzi 24, 10129 Torino (TO), Italy.
| | - Debora Fino
- Department of Applied Science and Technology (DISAT), Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca degli Abruzzi 24, 10129 Torino (TO), Italy
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Eid EM, Alrumman SA, El-Bebany AF, Fawy KF, Taher MA, Hesham AEL, El-Shaboury GA, Ahmed MT. The evaluation of sewage sludge application as a fertilizer for broad bean (Faba sativaBernh.) crops. Food Energy Secur 2018. [DOI: 10.1002/fes3.142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ebrahem M. Eid
- Biology Department; College of Science; King Khalid University; Abha Saudi Arabia
- Botany Department; Faculty of Science; Kafr El-Sheikh University; Kafr El-Sheikh Egypt
| | - Sulaiman A. Alrumman
- Biology Department; College of Science; King Khalid University; Abha Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed F. El-Bebany
- Biology Department; College of Science; King Khalid University; Abha Saudi Arabia
- Plant Pathology Department; Faculty of Agriculture; Alexandria University; El-Shatby Alexandria Egypt
| | - Khaled F. Fawy
- Chemistry Department; College of Science; King Khalid University; Abha Saudi Arabia
| | - Mostafa A. Taher
- Biology Department; College of Science; King Khalid University; Abha Saudi Arabia
- Botany Department; Faculty of Science; Aswan University; Aswan Egypt
| | - Abd El-Latif Hesham
- Biology Department; College of Science; King Khalid University; Abha Saudi Arabia
- Genetics Department; Faculty of Agriculture; Assiut University; Assiut Egypt
| | - Gamal A. El-Shaboury
- Biology Department; College of Science; King Khalid University; Abha Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed T. Ahmed
- Biology Department; College of Science; King Khalid University; Abha Saudi Arabia
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Sharma B, Kothari R, Singh RP. Growth performance, metal accumulation and biochemical responses of Palak (Beta vulgaris L. var. Allgreen H-1) grown on soil amended with sewage sludge-fly ash mixtures. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2018; 25:12619-12640. [PMID: 29468393 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-018-1475-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2017] [Accepted: 02/04/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Agricultural utilization of sewage sludge (SS) and fly ash (FA) has become both, a common practice and an alternative disposal method for these wastes all around the world. The present study was conducted to assess the effect and viability of co-application of SS and FA (SLASH) in four mixing ratios denoted as A [4 (SS): 1(FA)], B [4 (SS): 2 (FA)], C [4 (SS): 3 (FA)] and D [4 (SS): 4(FA)] at three application rates viz. 20, 40 and 60% (w/w) with agricultural soil on biochemical, physiological and growth response of Palak (Beta vulgaris L. var. Allgreen H-1), a commonly used green leafy vegetable. SLASH amendment modified the physico-chemical properties of soil and increased the concentration of heavy metals (Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Ni, Pb, Zn) in soil and plant parts however, within the Indian permissible limit except for Cr, Cd and Zn in shoot. Experimental results revealed decrease in morphological and growth parameters such as root and shoot length, leaf area, root, shoot biomass etc. Lipid peroxidation, ascorbic acid, proline and protein content increased however, total chlorophyll and carotenoid content decreased indicating towards heavy metal stress induced biochemical and physiological response in Palak plants. Significant increase in yield was seen in some of the treatments viz. three mixing ratios B, C and D, with maximum increment shown by mixture D at 20 and 40% amendment rate. The results of this study suggest that though SLASH amendment for growing Palak improved the physico-chemical properties of soil amended and also the yield of the plants in some treatments, it may not be a good option due to risk of contamination of heavy metals such as Cr, Cd and Zn showing higher accumulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhavisha Sharma
- Department of Environment and Sustainable Development, Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, 221005, India
| | - Richa Kothari
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Lucknow, 226025, India
- Department of Environmental Science, Central University of Jammu, Samba, (J & K), 181143, India
| | - Rajeev Pratap Singh
- Department of Environment and Sustainable Development, Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, 221005, India.
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Sulfur alleviates cadmium toxicity in rice (Oryza sativa L.) seedlings by altering antioxidant levels. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s12892-017-0072-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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12
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Eid EM, Alrumman SA, El-Bebany AF, Hesham AEL, Taher MA, Fawy KF. The effects of different sewage sludge amendment rates on the heavy metal bioaccumulation, growth and biomass of cucumbers (Cucumis sativus L.). ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2017; 24:16371-16382. [PMID: 28550630 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-017-9289-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2016] [Accepted: 05/17/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
When sewage sludge is incorrectly applied, it may adversely impact agro-system productivity. Thus, this study addresses the reaction of Cucumis sativus L. (cucumber) to different amendment rates (0, 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 g kg-1) of sewage sludge in a greenhouse pot experiment, in which the plant growth, heavy metal uptake and biomass were evaluated. A randomized complete block design with six treatments and six replications was used as the experimental design. The soil electrical conductivity, organic matter and Cr, Fe, Zn and Ni concentrations increased, but the soil pH decreased in response to the sewage sludge applications. As approved by the Council of European Communities, all of the heavy metal concentrations in the sewage sludge were less than the permitted limit for applying sewage sludge to land. Generally, applications of sewage sludge of up to 40 g kg-1 resulted in a considerable increase in all of the morphometric parameters and biomass of cucumbers in contrast to plants grown on the control soil. Nevertheless, the cucumber shoot height; root length; number of leaves, internodes and fruits; leaf area; absolute growth rate and biomass decreased in response to 50 g kg-1 of sewage sludge. All of the heavy metal concentrations (except the Cu, Zn and Ni in the roots, Mn in the fruits and Pb in the stems) in different cucumber tissues increased with increasing sewage sludge application rates. However, all of the heavy metal concentrations (except the Cr and Fe in the roots, Fe in the leaves and Cu in the fruits) were within the normal range and did not reach phytotoxic levels. A characteristic of these cucumbers was that all of the heavy metals had a bioaccumulation factor <1.0. All of the heavy metals (except Cd, Cu and Zn) had translocation factors that were <1.0. As a result, the sewage sludge used in this study could be considered for use as a fertilizer in cucumber production systems in Saudi Arabia and can also serve as a substitute method of sewage sludge disposal. Graphical Abstract The effects of different sewage sludge amendment rates on the heavy metal bioaccumulation, growth and biomass of cucumbers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ebrahem M Eid
- Biology Department, College of Science, King Khalid University, P.O. Box 9004, Abha, 61321, Saudi Arabia.
- Botany Department, Faculty of Science, Kafr El-Sheikh University, Kafr El-Sheikh, 33516, Egypt.
| | - Sulaiman A Alrumman
- Biology Department, College of Science, King Khalid University, P.O. Box 9004, Abha, 61321, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed F El-Bebany
- Biology Department, College of Science, King Khalid University, P.O. Box 9004, Abha, 61321, Saudi Arabia
- Plant Pathology Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Alexandria University, El-Shatby, Alexandria, 21545, Egypt
| | - Abd El-Latif Hesham
- Biology Department, College of Science, King Khalid University, P.O. Box 9004, Abha, 61321, Saudi Arabia
- Genetics Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Mostafa A Taher
- Biology Department, College of Science, King Khalid University, P.O. Box 9004, Abha, 61321, Saudi Arabia
- Botany Department, Faculty of Science, Aswan University, Aswan, 81528, Egypt
| | - Khaled F Fawy
- Chemistry Department, College of Science, King Khalid University, P.O. Box 9004, Abha, 61321, Saudi Arabia
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Wei G, Xia D, Li-Li W, Hong Y. Isolation, selection, and biological characterization research of highly effective electricigens from MFCs for phenol degradation. Folia Microbiol (Praha) 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s12223-017-0536-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Sharma B, Sarkar A, Singh P, Singh RP. Agricultural utilization of biosolids: A review on potential effects on soil and plant grown. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2017; 64:117-132. [PMID: 28336334 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2017.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2016] [Revised: 01/30/2017] [Accepted: 03/01/2017] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Environmental and economic implications linked with the proper ecofriendly disposal of modern day wastes, has made it essential to come up with alternative waste management practices that reduce the environmental pressures resulting from unwise disposal of such wastes. Urban wastes like biosolids are loaded with essential plant nutrients. In this view, agricultural use of biosolids would enable recycling of these nutrients and could be a sustainable approach towards management of this hugely generated waste. Therefore biosolids i.e. sewage sludge can serve as an important resource for agricultural utilization. Biosolids are characterized by the occurrence of beneficial plant nutrients (essential elements and micro and macronutrients) which can make help them to work as an effective soil amendment, thereby minimizing the reliance on chemical fertilizers. However, biosolids might contain toxic heavy metals that may limit its usage in the cropland. Heavy metals at higher concentration than the permissible limits may lead to food chain contamination and have fatal consequences. Biosolids amendment in soil can improve physical and nutrient property of soil depending on the quantity and portion of the mixture. Hence, biosolids can be a promising soil ameliorating supplement to increase plant productivity, reduce bioavailability of heavy metals and also lead to effective waste management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhavisha Sharma
- Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
| | - Abhijit Sarkar
- Laboratory of Applied Stress Biology, Department of Botany, University of Gour Banga, Malda 732 103, West Bengal, India.
| | - Pooja Singh
- Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
| | - Rajeev Pratap Singh
- Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India; Department of Civil Engineering, University of Nebraska Lincoln, Lincoln, USA.
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Eid EM, El-Bebany AF, Alrumman SA, Hesham AEL, Taher MA, Fawy KF. Effects of different sewage sludge applications on heavy metal accumulation, growth and yield of spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.). INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOREMEDIATION 2017; 19:340-347. [PMID: 27593943 DOI: 10.1080/15226514.2016.1225286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
In this study, we present the response of spinach to different amendment rates of sewage sludge (0, 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 g kg-1) in a greenhouse pot experiment, where plant growth, biomass and heavy metal uptake were measured. The results showed that sewage sludge application increased soil electric conductivity (EC), organic matter, chromium and zinc concentrations and decreased soil pH. All heavy metal concentrations of the sewage sludge were below the permissible limits for land application of sewage sludge recommended by the Council of the European Communities. Biomass and all growth parameters (except the shoot/root ratio) of spinach showed a positive response to sewage sludge applications up to 40 g kg-1 compared to the control soil. Increasing the sewage sludge amendment rate caused an increase in all heavy metal concentrations (except lead) in spinach root and shoot. However, all heavy metal concentrations (except chromium and iron) were in the normal range and did not reach the phytotoxic levels. The spinach was characterized by a bioaccumulation factor <1.0 for all heavy metals. The translocation factor (TF) varied among the heavy metals as well as among the sewage sludge amendment rates. Spinach translocation mechanisms clearly restricted heavy metal transport to the edible parts (shoot) because the TFs for all heavy metals (except zinc) were <1.0. In conclusion, sewage sludge used in the present study can be considered for use as a fertilizer in spinach production systems in Saudi Arabia, and the results can serve as a management method for sewage sludge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ebrahem M Eid
- a Department of Biology , College of Science, King Khalid University , Abha , Saudi Arabia
- b Department of Botany , Faculty of Science, Kafr El-Sheikh University , Kafr El-Sheikh , Egypt
| | - Ahmed F El-Bebany
- a Department of Biology , College of Science, King Khalid University , Abha , Saudi Arabia
- c Department of Plant Pathology , Faculty of Agriculture, Alexandria University , Alexandria , Egypt
| | - Sulaiman A Alrumman
- a Department of Biology , College of Science, King Khalid University , Abha , Saudi Arabia
| | - Abd El-Latif Hesham
- a Department of Biology , College of Science, King Khalid University , Abha , Saudi Arabia
- d Department of Genetics , Faculty of Agriculture, Assiut University , Assiut , Egypt
| | - Mostafa A Taher
- a Department of Biology , College of Science, King Khalid University , Abha , Saudi Arabia
- e Department of Botany , Faculty of Science, Aswan University , Aswan , Egypt
| | - Khaled F Fawy
- f Department of Chemistry , College of Science, King Khalid University , Abha , Saudi Arabia
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16
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Healy MG, Ryan PC, Fenton O, Peyton DP, Wall DP, Morrison L. Bioaccumulation of metals in ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) following the application of lime stabilised, thermally dried and anaerobically digested sewage sludge. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2016; 130:303-309. [PMID: 27174047 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2016.04.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2015] [Revised: 04/16/2016] [Accepted: 04/23/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
The uptake and accumulation of metals in plants is a potential pathway for the transfer of environmental contaminants in the food chain, and poses potential health and environmental risks. In light of increased population growth and urbanisation, the safe disposal of sewage sludge, which can contain significant levels of toxic contaminants, remains an environmental challenge globally. The aims of this experiment were to apply municipal sludge, having undergone treatment by thermal drying, anaerobic digestion, and lime stabilisation, to permanent grassland in order to assess the bioaccumulation of metals (B, Al, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Nb, Mo, Sb, Ba, W, Pb, Fe, Cd) by perennial ryegrass over a period of up to 18 weeks after application. The legislation currently prohibits use of grassland for fodder or grazing for at least three weeks after application of treated sewage sludge (biosolids). Five treatments were used: thermally dried (TD), anaerobically digested (AD) and lime stabilised (LS) sludge all from one wastewater treatment plant (WWTP), AD sludge from another WWTP, and a study control (grassland only, without application of biosolids). In general, there was no significant difference in metal content of the ryegrass between micro-plots that received treated municipal sludge and the control over the study duration. The metal content of the ryegrass was below the levels at which phytotoxicity occurs and below the maximum levels specified for animal feeds.
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Affiliation(s)
- M G Healy
- Civil Engineering, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | - P C Ryan
- Civil Engineering, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | - O Fenton
- Teagasc Johnstown Castle Environment Research Centre, Co. Wexford, Ireland
| | - D P Peyton
- Civil Engineering, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland; Teagasc Johnstown Castle Environment Research Centre, Co. Wexford, Ireland
| | - D P Wall
- Teagasc Johnstown Castle Environment Research Centre, Co. Wexford, Ireland
| | - L Morrison
- Earth and Ocean Sciences, School of Natural Sciences and Ryan Institute, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland.
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Gavina A, Antunes SC, Pinto G, Claro MT, Santos C, Gonçalves F, Pereira R. Can physiological endpoints improve the sensitivity of assays with plants in the risk assessment of contaminated soils? PLoS One 2013; 8:e59748. [PMID: 23565165 PMCID: PMC3615127 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0059748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2012] [Accepted: 02/17/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Site-specific risk assessment of contaminated areas indicates prior areas for intervention, and provides helpful information for risk managers. This study was conducted in the Ervedosa mine area (Bragança, Portugal), where both underground and open pit exploration of tin and arsenic minerals were performed for about one century (1857-1969). We aimed at obtaining ecotoxicological information with terrestrial and aquatic plant species to integrate in the risk assessment of this mine area. Further we also intended to evaluate if the assessment of other parameters, in standard assays with terrestrial plants, can improve the identification of phytotoxic soils. For this purpose, soil samples were collected on 16 sampling sites distributed along four transects, defined within the mine area, and in one reference site. General soil physical and chemical parameters, total and extractable metal contents were analyzed. Assays were performed for soil elutriates and for the whole soil matrix following standard guidelines for growth inhibition assay with Lemna minor and emergence and seedling growth assay with Zea mays. At the end of the Z. mays assay, relative water content, membrane permeability, leaf area, content of photosynthetic pigments (chlorophylls and carotenoids), malondialdehyde levels, proline content, and chlorophyll fluorescence (Fv/Fm and ΦPSII) parameters were evaluated. In general, the soils near the exploration area revealed high levels of Al, Mn, Fe and Cu. Almost all the soils from transepts C, D and F presented total concentrations of arsenic well above soils screening benchmark values available. Elutriates of several soils from sampling sites near the exploration and ore treatment areas were toxic to L. minor, suggesting that the retention function of these soils was seriously compromised. In Z. mays assay, plant performance parameters (other than those recommended by standard protocols), allowed the identification of more phytotoxic soils. The results suggest that these parameters could improve the sensitivity of the standard assays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Gavina
- Departamento de Biologia, Universidade de Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, Aveiro, Portugal
- CESAM – Centro de Estudos do Ambiente e do Mar, Universidade de Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Sara C. Antunes
- CESAM – Centro de Estudos do Ambiente e do Mar, Universidade de Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, Aveiro, Portugal
- Departamento de Biologia da Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade do Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre, Porto, Portugal
| | - Glória Pinto
- Departamento de Biologia, Universidade de Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, Aveiro, Portugal
- CESAM – Centro de Estudos do Ambiente e do Mar, Universidade de Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Maria Teresa Claro
- Departamento de Biologia, Universidade de Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, Aveiro, Portugal
- CESAM – Centro de Estudos do Ambiente e do Mar, Universidade de Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Conceição Santos
- Departamento de Biologia, Universidade de Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, Aveiro, Portugal
- CESAM – Centro de Estudos do Ambiente e do Mar, Universidade de Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Fernando Gonçalves
- Departamento de Biologia, Universidade de Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, Aveiro, Portugal
- CESAM – Centro de Estudos do Ambiente e do Mar, Universidade de Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Ruth Pereira
- CESAM – Centro de Estudos do Ambiente e do Mar, Universidade de Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, Aveiro, Portugal
- Departamento de Biologia da Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade do Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre, Porto, Portugal
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Roig N, Sierra J, Nadal M, Martí E, Navalón-Madrigal P, Schuhmacher M, Domingo JL. Relationship between pollutant content and ecotoxicity of sewage sludges from Spanish wastewater treatment plants. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2012; 425:99-109. [PMID: 22483948 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2012.03.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2011] [Revised: 02/29/2012] [Accepted: 03/10/2012] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Chemical and ecotoxicological properties of 28 sewage sludge samples from Spanish wastewater treatment plants were studied in order to assess their suitability for agricultural purposes. Sludge samples were classified into five categories according to specific treatment processes in terms of digestion (aerobic/anaerobic) and drying (mechanical/thermal). Composted samples, as indicative of the most refined process, were also considered. Sludges were subjected to physical-chemical characterization, being the sludge stabilization degree respirometrically assessed. The concentrations of seven metals (Cd, Cr, Cu, Pb, Zn, Ni, Hg) and organic substances (phenolic compounds, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, polychlorinated biphenyls, polychlorinated naphthalenes, polybrominated diphenyl ethers, and perfluorinated compounds) were determined. Finally, two ecotoxicological tests were performed: i) Microtox® toxicity test with Vibrio fischeri, and ii) root elongation test with Allium cepa, Lolium perenne and Raphanus sativus seeds. Significant differences were found in the following parameters: dry matter, electrical conductivity, nitrogen, organic matter and its stability, phytotoxicity and ecotoxicity, depending on the sludge treatment. In turn, no significant differences were found between categories in the concentrations of most metals and organic pollutants, with the exception of free phenolic compounds. Furthermore, no correlation between total heavy metal burden and ecotoxicity was observed. However, a good correlation was found between phenolic compounds and most ecotoxicological tests. These results suggest that sludge stability (conditioned by sludge treatment) might have a greater influence on sludge ecotoxicity than the pollutant load. Composting was identified as the treatment resulting in the lowest toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neus Roig
- Environmental Engineering Laboratory, Departament d'Enginyeria Quimica, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Av. Països Catalans 26, 43007 Tarragona, Catalonia, Spain
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Singh RP, Singh P, Ibrahim MH, Hashim R. Land application of sewage sludge: physicochemical and microbial response. REVIEWS OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2011; 214:41-61. [PMID: 21913124 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4614-0668-6_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
In the present review, we address the effects of sewage sludge amendment on soil physicochemical properties and on soil microbial biomass. Sewage sludge is a by-product of sewage treatment processes and is increasingly applied to agricultural lands as a source of fertilizer, and as an alternative to conventional means of disposal. The particular characteristics of sewage sludge depend upon the quality of sewage from which it is made, and the type of treatment processes through which it passes. Sewage sludge may substitute for inorganic fertilizers because it is rich in organic and inorganic plant nutrients. However, the presence of potentially toxic metals and pathogens in sewage sludge often restricts its uses. Ground water and food chain contamination resulting from sewage sludge amendment is one major concern worldwide. The health of soils is represented by a composite of their physical, chemical and biological properties. Amending soil with sewage sludge modifies the physicochemical and biological properties of soils. Perhaps the central constituent of soil that is important in the context of sewage sludge amendment is microbial biomass. Soil microbial biomass, the key living part of the soil, is very closely associated with the content of organic matter that exists in arable agricultural soils. When sewage sludge is land-applied, soil enzyme activities may be directly or indirectly affected by the presence of heavy metals. In several studies, results have shown that sewage sludge amendment increased soil microbial and soil enzyme activities; however, reduction in soil enzyme activity has also been reported. When incubation periods of sewage sludge were longer, heavy metal bioavailability increased. Soil pathogenic activity has also been reported to increase as a result of land application of sewage sludges. The level of pathogens in treated sewage sludge (biosolids) depends on the processes used to treat wastewater and sewage sludge. Agricultural application of sewage sludge may result in the transport of pathogens through aerosols downwind of sludge storage or dispersal sites, may contaminate ground water, stock ponds, or may produce food chain contamination from eating food grown in sludge-treated land.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajeev Pratap Singh
- Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, UP 221005, India.
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