Risk assessment of contaminants in sewage sludge used as fertilising product in Norway – fate and effects in the food chain and the environment Scientific Opinion of the Panel on Animal Feed of the Norwegian Scientific Committee for Food and Environment

This VKM scientific opinion presents a comprehensive risk assessment of organic contaminants in sewage sludge and sewage-sludge-derived products applied to agricultural land in Norway. It evaluates environmental fate, exposure pathways to soil, surface water, plants, wildlife, farm animals and humans, and identifies a limited set of priority substances of concern. The report models predicted environmental concentrations under current and alternative fertiliser regulations and management practices, characterises hazards and risks, and discusses uncertainties. Findings provide a scientific basis for assessing circular economy practices and safe recycling of bioresources in agriculture.