Life cycle assessment–based decision frameworks for nutrient removal using environmentally friendly sorbents in tertiary wastewater treatment: a review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.3846/da.2026.2304Language:
EnglishAbstract
Sorbents-based technologies are increasingly being investigated as advanced solutions for the final removal of biogenic substances in tertiary wastewater treatment due to their ability to effectively remove phosphorus and nitrogen. Most of the existing scientific research focuses on the removal efficiency and physical and chemical properties of sorbents, while the environmental impact of sorbent-based systems throughout their life cycle is often assessed in a fragmented manner, using different methodological principles, making it difficult to compare the results obtained. This review systematizes and critically analyzes the current knowledge on the removal of biogenic substances using natural and modified sorbents, applies the methodological perspective of life cycle assessment (LCA), and moves from material property-oriented assessments to a structured, decision-supporting analytical approach. The main categories of sorbents are reviewed, taking into account the specifics of their application in tertiary wastewater treatment systems, and the essential life cycle stages, including sorbent production, transportation, operational use, regeneration processes and management at the end of their service life, are consistently assessed. Additionally, the most commonly used life cycle assessment methodological approaches are critically assessed, with particular attention to the selection of the functional unit, the definition of system boundaries and impact categories, such as global warming potential and eutrophication potential. Based on the synthesis of the reviewed studies, a conceptual, life cycle assessment-based decision-making system is proposed, integrating the efficiency of biogenic substances removal with environmental issues, aiming at a reasonable choice of technologies and their sustainable implementation. Finally, the main research gaps are identified, including the lack of harmonized methodological approaches to life cycle assessment, insufficient assessment of the efficiency of sorbent reuse and regeneration, and limited analysis of resource recovery; Recommendations for future research to base tertiary wastewater treatment on sustainability principles are also provided.
Keywords:
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