Biosolids challenges explained: How rising costs and PFAS impact wastewater drying systems
In this interview, Bob Crossen, vice president of content strategy for Endeavor Business Media, speaks with Todd Williams, global principal of residuals at Jacobs, about biosolids management strategies and sludge drying technologies for wastewater utilities. They explore rising hauling and disposal costs, regulatory uncertainty, and innovative solutions like improved digestion, advanced dewatering, and thermal drying systems. Learn why adaptability, phased planning, and energy-efficient drying are critical for utilities facing PFAS concerns, land application restrictions, and future compliance challenges.
Key topics covered
- How utilities can reduce solids and optimize biosolids treatment.
- Cost drivers: hauling, permitting, and landfill tipping fees.
- Regulatory trends and PFAS implications for land application.
- Technology outlook: digestion, solar drying, thermal drying, and advanced thermal processes (gasification, pyrolysis).
Timestamped highlights
- 00:00 – Introduction: Bob Crossen and Todd Williams discuss biosolids treatment.
- 00:39 – Biggest challenge for utilities: Rising costs and solids management.
- 01:05 – Geographic cost trends: Atlanta, New England, Mid-Atlantic, West.
- 01:29 – What’s driving costs? Hauling, permitting, and landfilling.
- 02:14 – Regulatory landscape: Maine and future adaptability.
- 02:53 – Why utilities need phased, flexible solutions.
- 03:28 – Drying as a first step in biosolids management.
- 04:09 – Technology trends: Improved digestion, dewatering, thermal drying.
- 05:05 – Advanced options: Gasification, pyrolysis, thermal treatment.
- 05:30 – Closing thoughts: Energy, costs, and planning for the future.
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About the Author
Bob Crossen
Bob Crossen is the vice president of content strategy for the Water and Energy Groups of Endeavor Business Media, a division of EndeavorB2B. EB2B publishes WaterWorld, Wastewater Digest and Stormwater Solutions in its water portfolio and publishes Oil & Gas Journal, Offshore Magazine, T&D World, EnergyTech and Microgrid Knowledge in its energy portfolio. Crossen graduated from Illinois State University in Dec. 2011 with a Bachelor of Arts in German and a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism. He worked for Campbell Publications, a weekly newspaper company in rural Illinois outside St. Louis for four years as a reporter and regional editor. Crossen can be reached at [email protected].