Understanding the benefits of a circular economy based on excreta derived fertilizers

What is it about?

Human and industrial wastes are an important source of reusable resources. Human wastes moving through sanitation contain nutrients like carbon (C), nitrogen (N), and Phosphorus (P). Putting these nutrients back into agricultural soils can be a way of reusing essential resources. This can reduce the need of external fertilizers as well as lessen greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from these wastes. Such a flow of nutrients back into the soil is known as a circular economy. However, the impact of such a cycle on global GHG emissions is not known. This study looked at the benefits of a fully circular economy. The study considered a scenario based on 100% recovery of C, N, and P. It was found that the benefits of a circular economy differ by region. The study also shows the possible reductions in GHG emissions by 2022 as well as those by 2030 and 2050.

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Photo by Jan Kopřiva on Unsplash

Photo by Jan Kopřiva on Unsplash

Why is it important?

Putting nutrients and water from human wastes back into the soil can reduce fertilizer use and GHG emissions. This study found that different regions of the world may benefit differently from a circular economy. These differences are based on factors like fertilizer use and nutrient recovery. The study also identifies regions which can benefit from moving to such a circular model. KEY TAKEAWAY: Nutrient recovery from human wastes can reduce GHG emissions and improve nutrient recycling in agriculture. It can reduce fertilizer use and aid in the better use of municipal water. In this way, circular economy of nutrients can play a key role in dealing with climate change and food security. This research relates to the following Sustainable Development Goals: • SDG 13 - Climate Action • SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation • SDG 2: Zero Hunger • SDG 15: Life on Land