Proceedings

Investigating the links between the nitrogen cycle and wastewater treatment

As the predominant gas in the Earth’s atmosphere, nitrogen (N2) is an extremely abundant element, and its reactive or ‘fixed’ forms is essential for all living beings. The overabundance of reactive nitrogen in the environment due to anthropogenic activities has led to major human health and environmental concerns, a trend poised to accelerate with population growth unless addressed across sectors. In the water industry, emissions of nitrous oxide (N2O), a potent greenhouse gas, are a key issue. The wastewater treatment process plays an important role in managing nitrogen pollution by removing nutrients from human waste. However, this process emits greenhouse gases during treatment and discharge, contributing a significant amount to the environmental footprint of the total water chain. In the water industry, a vital need has emerged for circular and sustainable solutions that address both water quality and greenhouse gas impacts of the nitrogen cycle.