WTP SLUDGE: A BIBLIOMETRIC AND SYSTEMATIC REVIEW ON THERMOCHEMICAL CONVERSION TO BIOPRODUCTS AND SUSTAINABILITY

Abstract

In this work, the challenges involved in the management of waste from water treatment plants (WTPs) were addressed, with a focus on the significant production of sludge. It was investigated on the conversion of these sludges into bioproducts by pyrolysis, highlighting the environmental and economic benefits, exploring its potential as a raw material for renewable energy, eliminating waste and mitigating greenhouse gas emissions. Through a bibliometric review carried out, which was governed by the laws of Lotka, Bradford and Zipf, and using the Web of Science and Scopus databases, the frequency of keywords, authors, articles and the most relevant journals in the area were identified. A systematic analysis was also carried out to deepen the findings around the theme. In this context of disseminated research, the geographic results indicate the leadership of Brazil in publications, followed by China. Among the most recurrent keywords around the theme are biomass, pyrolysis, biochar, charcoal, biofuels, life cycle and waste water treatment and thermochemical conversion. The journal that presents the most publications in this area was the Journal of Cleaner Production, with an impact factor of 9.8. Thus, this study offers a general understanding of the research on the use of WTP sludge, highlighting its environmental and energy importance. The topic involving the conversion of WTP sludge into bioproducts by pyrolysis fits with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) principles, namely, it is mainly related to SDG 6, which seeks to ensure the availability and sustainable management of water, and SDG 7, which promotes the use of clean and affordable energy. In addition, it supports SDG 11 by contributing to sustainable cities and communities, and SDG 12, by promoting sustainable consumption and production patterns. From an ESG point of view, the study addresses environmental issues, by encouraging the reduction of waste and emissions, and social issues, by promoting the improvement of public health and quality of life through proper waste management. It also aligns with the principles of governance, by fostering the implementation of sustainable management practices and transparency in environmental operations, promoting more responsible and sustainable development.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56238/sevened2024.031-097