Nagoya City to Market Fertilizer from Sewage Sludge
Nagoya city authorities are preparing to market fertilizer generated from sewage sludge. This initiative aims to utilize a readily available resource rich in essential nutrients for plant growth.
The fertilizer, derived from the dead bodies of microorganisms that have decomposed human waste, is a valuable source of nitrogen and phosphorus. Nitrogen is crucial for plant growth, while Japan relies heavily on imported phosphorus, facing increasing costs.
Nagoya generates approximately 20,000 tons of sewage sludge daily. Traditionally, this sludge was incinerated, with the ash used as a raw material for cement production. However, the city now plans to convert a portion of this sludge into fertilizer, aiming to market 1,000 tons annually.
This shift in strategy aligns with the central government's recent push to promote the use of sewage sludge as fertilizer. This initiative was driven by the rising cost of phosphorus and other raw materials, partly due to the Ukraine crisis and increased global demand for grain.
The fertilizer derived from sewage sludge meets the required quality standards, ensuring its effectiveness and safety. The city plans to repurpose its existing solid fuel production facility in Minato Ward to produce approximately 7 tons of fertilizer daily.
This initiative demonstrates Nagoya's commitment to sustainable resource management and utilizing readily available materials to address agricultural needs. By marketing fertilizer generated from sewage sludge, the city aims to contribute to food security and reduce reliance on imported resources.