Co-composting for detoxifying anaerobic sludge from semi-dry co-digestion of algae of the Lagune of Venice mixed with municipal solid waste

This paper deals with the biological treatment of algal biomass harvested in the Lagune of Venice. The aim of the present work is to give information about an integrated process in which thermophilic, semi-dry anaerobic co-digestion of macroalgae mixed with the organic fraction of municipal solid waste (MSW) has been followed by biooxidative compost stabilisation of the digestate. Such a biological processing has been considered in order to reclaim a conspicuous amount of putrescible biomass for agricultural uses. The strategy here suggested might contribute to solve the critical environmental situation of the lagoon with the possibility to even recover energy and organic amendant from seaweeds.