ALCOSAN prides itself on being environmentally friendly. As a result, we are pursuing several initiatives to educate, conserve resources, and act as a responsible environmental steward.
Biosolids – A Way to Improve Soils and Landscapes
ALCOSAN's biosolids are lime-stabilized, nutrient-rich processed organic material produced through wastewater treatment. Biosolids have traditionally been used as an organic replacement for chemical fertilizers because they offer many other
benefits.
Biosolids are rich in organic matter, which is critical to soil health. They contain nearly all the nutrients plants need for vigorous growth, increase beneficial soil organisms, mineralize nutrients slowly over several seasons, and
return carbon to the soil. Among other benefits, biosolids rebuild healthier soil structure and improve the water-holding capacity of soils, thereby easing the effects of drought.
ALCOSOIL and Land Application
Stockpile area on a permitted beneficial use site in preparation to spread ALCOSOIL.
A tractor and “side-slinger” are used to carefully apply ALCOSOIL on the land surface at a target rate needed to slowly fertilize the forage plants livestock will require over several seasons.
USEPA and Ohio EPA regulations are closely followed to keep nutrients in the right place.
ALCOSOIL, our biosolids product, is beneficially used in a land application program to reclaim damaged and pasture lands. Resembling crumbly wet dirt, ALCOSOIL is similar to soil humus in both formation and composition. It contains naturally occurring nutrients, minerals, and trace metals essential for healthy soil. Lime is a key component, as it reduces odors and pathogens, and is commonly used by farmers to maintain productive soil.
PUP Program
Pet waste left on the ground can wash into storm drains and contaminate our rivers and streams with bacteria and parasites. Protecting our waterways from harmful pet waste is as easy as snagging it and bagging it in biodegradable bags that can be thrown into any trash can.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, pet waste is a significant cause of water body contamination, especially in areas where there are high concentrations of dogs. Decaying pet waste consumes oxygen and releases ammonia. Low oxygen levels and ammonia can damage the health of fish and other aquatic life. Additionally, it contains nutrients that promote weed and algae growth, which makes swimming and recreation unappealing or even unhealthy. Pet waste also carries bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can threaten the health of humans and wildlife.
Green Workplace Challenge
In addition to our aggressive in-plant recycling and beneficial reuse programs, ALCOSAN participates in the Green Workplace Challenge and is recognized annually by the Pennsylvania Resource Council for outstanding waste diversion rates at the ALCOSAN Open House.
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PUP Program
Protecting our waterways from harmful pet waste is as easy as snagging it, bagging it and throwing it in a trash can.
Take the PUP Pledge