About the project

Municipalities in Norrbotten face several common challenges in managing sewage sludge in the future. There are growing demands for sustainable use of resources and a lower impact on the climate. At the same time, many municipalities have limited resources to investigate different solutions on their own.

The project will develop a shared basis for future decisions about sewage sludge from wastewater treatment plants. An important part is to explore whether sewage sludge can be treated through pyrolysis to produce biochar. The project will also assess which solutions are sustainable for the environment, the climate and the economy.

What we are doing

During the project period, we will:

• map current sewage sludge management in Norrbotten's municipalities
• collect and analyse data on volumes, costs and transport
• explore technical options for pyrolysis and biochar production
• analyse how different solutions affect the environment and the climate
• analyse logistics and transport
• explore different forms of regional cooperation
• develop economic scenarios and analyse their consequences
• develop recommendations and supporting information for municipal decision-making.

Goals and expected results

The project will contribute to:

• increased knowledge about technology, environmental effects and costs
• better cooperation between municipalities
• information to support future investments and shared solutions
• a lower impact on the climate and better use of resources
• better opportunities to recover phosphorus, carbon and other valuable resources.

Timeline and current status

Autumn 2026

The project starts by collecting data and mapping the current situation. The work covers the amount of sewage sludge, how it is transported and its quality. A steering group and a reference group are formed.

Winter and spring 2027

The project carries out technical, logistics and environmental analyses. Different forms of cooperation are explored and economic scenarios are developed. Workshops are held with the municipalities.

Summer 2027

The project concludes with a final analysis. The results are compiled in a report and supporting information for future decisions. The results are then presented.

Funding, collaborations and responsibilities

The Urban Development Department at Bodens Municipality is the project owner. Future Eco North Sweden AB is a project partner and project manager.

Municipalities in Norrbotten can take part in the project's reference group and contribute data and experience. They can also participate in workshops and discussions.

The project is funded by the European Regional Development Fund and Region Norrbotten, with co-funding from Bodens Municipality.