Biosolids application to land
Biosolids are sewage sludges or sewage sludges mixed with other materials that have been treated and/or stabilised to the extent that they can be safely and beneficially applied to land. Biosolids have significant fertilising and soil conditioning properties because of the nutrients and organic material that they contain.
The Ministry has supported the development of Guidelines for the Safe Application of Biosolids to Land in New Zealand [NZ Water and Wastes Association (NZWAA) website]. These guidelines, are designed to provide a framework for biosolids management that enables their land application in a way that maximises the benefits and minimises the risk of adverse effects on human health, the environment and the economy.
The Guidelines were produced by a joint committee established by the New Zealand Water and Waste Association, representing a range of wastewater industry, user groups, Government and environmental group interests. Development of the Guidelines was funded by the Ministry’s Sustainable Management Fund.
Last updated: 17 September 2007
