Phytotoxicity and quality in compost: a concise review of Sewage Sludge and Green Waste applications

Abstract The challenge of managing Sewage Sludge (SS) intersects with environmental concerns, regulatory frameworks, and public perceptions. Integrating SS with Green Waste (GW) through co-composting presents a forward-thinking solution that caters to both waste management and sustainable agricultural practices. Co-composting of SS with GW contributes towards food, water, and energy nexus frameworks, aiming to generate a circular bioeconomy establishing a nutrient loop to improve food and waste systems resilience. The co-composting process not only diverts organic waste from landfills but also creates a nutrient-rich soil amendment. The current review delves into the synergistic benefits and the scientific and practical aspects of factors affecting the co-composting of SS with GW. It examines the interaction between SS and GW and its influence on the composting process, the quality of the resulting compost, and the phytotoxicity of compost. Moreover, a special focus on the evaluation of maturity and stability indicators is considered.