Beyond the conventional life cycle inventory in wastewater treatment plants

摘要: Abstract The conventional approach for the environmental assessment of wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) is typically based on removal efficiency organic load and nutrients as well quantification energy chemicals consumption. Current research entails monitoring direct emissions greenhouse gases (GHG) emerging pollutants such pharmaceutical personal care products (PPCPs), which have been rarely considered in a facility by life cycle (LCA) methodology. As result that, real impacts WWTP may be underestimated. In this study, two WWTPs located different climatic regions (Atlantic Mediterranean) Spain were evaluated extensive sampling campaigns that included not only water quality parameters but also GHG PPCPs sludge lines. Regarding campaign, on-site measurements methane (CH 4 ) nitrous oxide (N 2 O) performed emission factors calculated both WWTPs. accounted 62% total global warming potential (GWP), much more relevant than indirect CO associated with electricity use. PPCPs, 19 compounds measured main streams: influent, effluent sludge, to perform evaluation toxicity impact categories. Although presence heavy metals linked production shade some categories, latter showed notable influence freshwater ecotoxicity (FETP). For category, within was remarkably important arose an benefit comparison non-treatment scenario.