What is the primary benefit of reducing volatile solids in biosolids treatment?

Reducing volatile solids in biosolids treatment primarily serves to minimize sludge volume, which is a critical aspect of wastewater management. Volatile solids are organic materials that can be broken down by microorganisms during treatment processes. When these solids are reduced, it results in a significant decrease in the overall mass of the sludge that needs to be managed, transported, or disposed of.

This reduction in sludge volume has several practical advantages. It decreases the resources required for handling and processing the waste, thereby making management more efficient. Furthermore, a lower volume of sludge can lead to reduced storage and transportation costs, as there's less material to move and treat.

In essence, minimizing sludge volume not only makes the biosolids treatment process more efficient but also supports more sustainable practices by decreasing the overall environmental impact associated with sludge management.