What is one of the main goals of the sludge management process?

One of the primary goals of the sludge management process is to minimize environmental impact. Sludge, which is a byproduct of water and wastewater treatment, can contain harmful contaminants and pathogens that could pose a risk to public health and the environment if not managed properly. Proper sludge management ensures that these wastes are treated and disposed of in a way that reduces pollution, protects water bodies, and complies with environmental regulations.

Minimizing the environmental impact involves various strategies, such as dewatering the sludge to reduce its volume, treating it to remove harmful substances, and finding sustainable options for its disposal or reuse, such as using it as fertilizer in agriculture after appropriate treatment. By focusing on these practices, operators can effectively manage sludge while safeguarding the environment and public health.

Other options like increasing water pressure or enhancing color removal are not directly related to sludge management, and speeding up oxidation typically relates to the treatment processes rather than the management of sludge itself. Therefore, the emphasis on minimizing environmental impact aligns closely with the objectives and responsibilities of water operators regarding sludge management.