A Framework for Sustainable Planning and Decision-Making on Resource Recovery from Wastewater: Showcase for São Paulo Megacity

A Framework for Sustainable Planning and Decision-Making on Resource Recovery from Wastewater: Showcase for São Paulo Megacity

Currently, it is important to develop strategic frameworks to support the selection of sustainable resource recovery solutions. This study applies a new framework for planning, implementation, and assessment of resource recovery strategies for a full-scale wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) in São Pa...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Water (Basel) Vol. 12; no. 12; p. 3466
Main Authors: Chrispim, Mariana C., de M. de Souza, Fernanda, Scholz, Miklas, Nolasco, Marcelo A.
Format: Journal Article
Language:English
Published: MDPI AG 01-12-2020
Subjects:
Backup software
Biogas
Brazil
Case studies
Decision-making
decision-support system
dense urban areas
Developing Countries
energy recovery
Engineering and Technology
Environmental Engineering
integrated process
Natural resources
Naturresursteknik
Purification
resource-oriented sanitation
Sewage
Sludge
Teknik
United Kingdom
Wastewater
Water treatment plants
Water utilities
water–energy–food nexus
Brazil
United Kingdom
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Summary:Currently, it is important to develop strategic frameworks to support the selection of sustainable resource recovery solutions. This study applies a new framework for planning, implementation, and assessment of resource recovery strategies for a full-scale wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) in São Paulo megacity. The framework comprises several steps based on case study-specific data and information from current literature. Data were collected from various sources: a survey with a wastewater treatment utility, national and regional databases, and review of local regulations and international literature. Treatment configuration, wastewater and by-products composition, potential demand (for water, energy, and phosphorus), stakeholder identification, and local legislation were thoroughly discussed regarding decision-making on resource recovery. Scenario analysis was used to explore suitable nutrient and energy recovery measures based on indicators. Biogas recovery and sewage sludge composting showed more favorable conditions due to similar experiences in the area and robust legislation. The proposed framework is a simplified tool, and its application can support managers to get information on resource recovery and how to plan such initiatives in easier ways to facilitate wiser decision-making, and better operation and management. The results on framework use and refinement can guide potential applications in other contexts and stimulate public policy formulation and further research.
ISSN:2073-4441
2073-4441
DOI:10.3390/w12123466