Biosolids transformation includes managing a range of chemical, stability and pathogenic risks to protect public health, reduce nuisances and maximise the benefits of the use of this resource. In Australia, biosolids are regulated at the state level, using outdated guidelines, still largely based on risk management concepts originally published in the 70’s by the USEPA.

While some states have attempted to update the guidelines, many challenges remain. One of these challenges relates to the exposure pathways for persistent emerging contaminants such as hydrochlorocarbon pesticides, brominated flame retardants, per fluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS) and endocrine disrupters.

The PhD student and ICPD will work together to develop a comprehensive validation framework for biosolids recycling schemes, with an emphasis on emerging contaminants for existing processing technologies, enabling the development of new, robust Australian Guidelines for Biosolids Management. Such guidelines will place emphasis on developing biosolids safety plans and process barrier monitoring, rather than an over-reliance on conventional end-point quality monitoring.