Biosolids Market Research Report

Biosolids Market Size and Share:

The global biosolids market size was valued at USD 1.8 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach USD 2.6 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.15% from 2025-2033. Asia Pacific currently dominates the market, holding a market share of over 35.0% in 2024. The biosolids market share is rising due to the increased wastewater treatment activities, organic fertilizer demand, environmental regulations, advances in processing technologies, agricultural applications, and reduced dependence on chemical fertilizers.

The biosolids market growth is increasing as sustainable waste management practices become a global priority. Biosolids, the nutrient-rich organic byproduct of treated wastewater, are widely used in agriculture, land reclamation, and energy production. It will be of more value to today's farmers with the capability of improving soil health and reducing their use of chemical fertilizers. Governments and environmental agencies are advocating biosolids as a more sustainable option for soil amendment and waste management. Improvements in their quality have been achieved through the use of advanced treatment technologies like composting and anaerobic digestion, thus expanding their potential applications. The largest end-use sector for biosolids remains agriculture, due to the organic matter and necessary nutrients in them. There is also a growing interest in renewable energy that has increased its application in biogas production. While regulatory challenges and public perception issues exist, advancements in processing technology and stringent quality standards are addressing concerns about contaminants. With increasing awareness about circular economy principles, biosolids are becoming an integral part of sustainable environmental solutions. As industries seek eco-friendly alternatives, the market is expected to expand, offering opportunities for innovation in waste management and resource recovery.

The United States emerged as a key regional market for biosolids, driven by the ever-increasing need for sustainable solutions to waste management and agriculture. Biosolids are nutrient-rich materials that have been produced by processing sewage sludge and are, therefore, greatly applied in farmlands for fertilizer and soil conditioner purposes. Strict environmental policies that would seek to recycle the biosolids rather than throw them into landfills tend to benefit the market as they are developed by the EPA. This goes in line with the increased emphasis on circular economy practices and organic farming solutions. Despite the various uses of biosolids that help improve soil health, significant challenges remain, from anxiety over heavy metal contamination to generally negative public perception. These problems are addressed through many U.S. states adopting advanced treatment technologies such as composting, thermal drying, and anaerobic digestion, which increase the quality of biosolids. In addition, the use of biosolids has expanded beyond agriculture to include land reclamation and energy production, making it a versatile solution for waste management and environmental sustainability.

Biosolids Market Trends:

Shift toward sustainable agriculture

The decline in arable land worldwide is one of the significant factors in shaping the biosolids market trends in agricultureThe UNCCD projects that the world lost at least 100 Million hectares of productive and healthy land every year from 2015 to 2019. Soil degradation, urbanization, and climate change continue to reduce the fertile land available for cultivation, hence increasing the need for sustainable soil amendments. Biosolids are rich in organic matter and essential nutrients, thus enhancing soil health, structure, and water retention capacity. Governments and agricultural organizations worldwide are actively promoting biosolid-based fertilizers to counteract soil erosion and degradation. Policies supporting sustainable farming practices are further accelerating the adoption of biosolids in both commercial and small-scale farming. Biosolids applications are growing rapidly in countries with large agricultural sectors, such as India, China, and Brazil, where farmers are looking for cost-effective and eco-friendly fertilization methods. Furthermore, with land resources dwindling, the need to maximize agricultural productivity has increased. Biosolids increase soil microbial activity, thereby improving nutrient availability and crop yields. Biosolids are anticipated to grow with this increased awareness regarding the issues of food security and soil conservation as biosolids increase their potential use in farms and make way for being key players in future, modern green agriculture.

Growing consumer demand for organic farming

Increasing customer awareness about the devastating impact of chemical-based pesticides and fertilizers has raised increasing demand for an organic method of farming. Subsequently, it triggers a biosolid market. Consumers worldwide are becoming more health-conscious, and demand for organic food products is on the rise. Industry reports state that about 34% of American consumers have included organic foods in their diets. This chemical-free and sustainably grown food trend is forcing farmers and agribusinesses to take up biosolids as a natural and eco-friendly soil amendment. Such valuable constituents include nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium as applied nutrients in a very natural yet efficient way from organic farming devoid of synthetic chemical supports. Several regulations over organic farming currently recognize biosolids as useful soil conditioners, thus widely increasing usage. Europe and North America appear most affected as strict agricultural policy ensures sustainable substitutes for fertilizer and synthetic fertilizers. In addition, major biosolid producers are producing organic-certified biosolids to meet this emerging market. These products meet organic farming requirements, however, provide enhanced soil fertility and crop health benefits. As consumers increasingly focus on sustainability and natural food production, biosolids use in organic farming is expected to increase significantly shortly.

Expanding wastewater treatment facilities

Increasing demand for clean water and efficient waste management is another factor responsible for boosting biosolids demand. Industrialization and population growth have led to increased industrial and municipal wastewater volumes, requiring enhanced treatment processes. Biosolids are a byproduct of wastewater treatment that is taking greater importance due to their useful applications in agriculture, land reclamation, and landscaping. Many governments are investing in modern wastewater treatment facilities, ensuring a steady supply of high-quality biosolids for various end uses. In addition, the increased popularity of urban greening initiatives, such as parks, gardens, and golf courses, is supporting biosolid adoption. Biosolids are a cost-effective and sustainable soil amendment for large-scale landscaping projects, improving soil structure and fertility. The trend of home gardening is also contributing to market growth, with more consumers seeking organic soil enhancers for their personal green spaces. As per IMARC Group, the global gardening equipment market reached USD 40.6 Billion in 2024, indicating a strong demand for gardening and landscaping solutions.

Biosolids Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the global biosolids market, along with forecasts at the global, regional, and country levels from 2025-2033. The market has been categorized based on product type, form, and application.

Analysis by Product Type:

• Class A Biosolids
• Class A (EQ) Biosolids
• Class B Biosolids

The Class A biosolids dominate the market with a share of 53.2%. They are processed for compliance with stringent environmental criteria, hence posing no risks of pathogenic contamination and being safe for agricultural and non-agricultural use. Such a level of treatment makes Class A biosolids highly attractive, especially in agriculture where organic material is used as fertilizer. The widespread acceptance of Class A biosolids is on account of enhanced regulatory pressure toward safer waste treatment, environmental sustainability, and eco-friendly practices. Thus, the rise in organic practices among farmers can be supplemented best by Class A biosolids, which contain high nutrients without any harmful contaminants. The superior quality and safety of Class A biosolids, compared to Class B (which still may contain trace pathogens), positions them as the preferred choice in both developed and developing regions. Additionally, the global trend toward reducing synthetic chemical fertilizers further boosts the adoption of Class A biosolids, as they are perceived as a sustainable alternative. This has been enhancing growth in the agricultural industry where Class A biosolids are utilized for crop production and soil enhancement, thus establishing their monopoly in the industry.

Analysis by Form:

• Cakes
• Liquid
• Pellets

Cakes are the most available biosolids form, which is a product of the dewatering process of treated sewage sludge. It is usually a solid and dense cake, which has a high level of organic materials that make it a great fertilizer for agricultural purposes. Liquid biosolids are made by processes such as centrifugation or filtration and are usually applied for irrigation in agriculture or in treatment plants. They contain a higher percentage of moisture, thus easier to transport however, less concentrated than cakes. Pellets are dried and compacted biosolids and are best suited for use as fertilizers or energy production. These have the added advantage of ease in handling, storage, and transport. Additionally, their low moisture content has significantly reduced the likelihood of pathogens and odor. Every form is specific to an application. Hence, they offer flexibility in biosolid management and enhance sustainability in waste management practices.

Analysis by Application:

• Agricultural
• Non-Agricultural
• Heat Generation, Incineration and Gasification

Agriculture leads the biosolid market since there is an increased need for organic and sustainable farming. Biosolids are an organic material that provides fertilizer and serves as a substitute for synthetic fertilizers. They promote the health of the soil as they improve the structure, hold more water, and enhance microbial activity. The increased knowledge of the public regarding the hazards of chemical fertilizers and the increasing awareness about organic agriculture increases the stronghold of agricultural applications. In many countries, there are regulatory incentives to encourage the agricultural use of biosolids in enhancing soil fertility and the sustainable management of waste. Additionally, the role of biosolids in controlling agricultural runoff by enhancing soil nutrient retention is another feature contributing to increasing applications in agriculture. The agricultural application segment will remain the leader in the biosolids market due to evolving agricultural practices that focus on sustainable and circular economy principles, with growing global interest in reducing waste and enhancing sustainable land management practices. Continued use of biosolids across the world by farmers fuels their growth.

Regional Analysis:

• North America
  • United States
  • Canada
• Asia-Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • Australia
  • Indonesia
  • Others
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • United Kingdom
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia
  • Others
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Others
• Middle East and Africa

Asia Pacific dominates the biosolids market with a share of 35.0%, with strong growth in its agricultural sector, rising population, and increasing demands for sustainable waste management solutions. These countries include China, India, and Japan, where governments are adopting initiatives that will use organic fertilizers, promote environmental sustainability, and recycle waste. The heavy dependence of the region on agriculture as an economic driver makes biosolids an attractive alternative to synthetic fertilizers, improving soil fertility and crop yields while reducing environmental degradation. Urbanization and industrialization in the Asia Pacific have led to the generation of vast amounts of sewage sludge, prompting governments to implement strict waste disposal regulations and encourage biosolid utilization. Additionally, growing awareness about the need for sustainable agriculture, and unease over the exploitation of excessive chemical fertilizer, has boosted growth toward biosolids application as a safe alternative soil amendment. Japan and South Korea focus on advanced treatment of biosolids, whereas China and India are seeing a tremendous increase in biosolid application across vast areas of their farmlands. More recently, investments in wastewater treatment plants have increased within the Asia Pacific region. This continues to fuel the production of biosolids. With strong government support, increasing agricultural activities, and growing interest in sustainability, Asia Pacific is still the leader in the biosolids market, with immense growth potential.

The North American biosolids market is driven by stringent environmental regulations and a strong focus on sustainability. The EPA's waste management regulations encourage the recycling of biosolids, thus reducing landfill dependency. The region's well-established wastewater treatment infrastructure, especially in the U.S., supports the increasing use of biosolids in agriculture, landscaping, and land reclamation. Increasing interest in organic farming and circular economy practices further boosts demand for biosolids as a natural fertilizer. Advanced treatment technologies like thermal drying and anaerobic digestion are also gaining popularity.

Strict regulations on waste management and a drive for sustainable agriculture influence the biosolids market in Europe. Policies of the European Union promote recycling biosolids in agricultural applications, especially in countries such as Germany, the UK, and France. The increasing demand for organic fertilizers and soil enhancement products has increased the use of biosolids in farming. More than that, improvements in biosolid treatment technologies such as composting and biogas production increase the use of biosolids in renewable energy and waste-to-resource projects.

The biosolids market is growing in Latin America, primarily due to the increasing urbanization and infrastructure developments related to wastewater treatment. Brazil and Mexico are now following sustainable waste management practices, among which recycling biosolids for agricultural purposes is one of them. The key drivers here are regulatory support for organic farming and demand for natural fertilizers. Biosolids are increasingly seen as an easy solution to enhance land reclamation and agricultural productivity in the face of rising concerns about land degradation in the region.

There is a thrust in the use of biosolids in the Middle East and Africa, given increasing urbanization in the region along with water scarcity, so that a sound solution for waste management can be effectively pursued. Challenges with water treatment make the region highly focused on recycling biosolids for agricultural purposes, especially in South Africa and the UAE. Arid regions such as these countries have a huge demand for soil enhancement and fertilizers, with biosolids providing a cheaper route to improve the fertility of soils. Technological advancements in the treatment of biosolids will increase growth in the market for the region.

Key Regional Takeaways:

United States Biosolids Market Analysis

The United States biosolids market is driven by the rising environmental rules and significant growth in sustainability and environmentally conscious waste management practices As estimated by the EPA, greenhouse gases are emitted at 170 Million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent, or Million MTCO2e yearly, in the United States. This translates to the CO2 equivalent of the emissions from 42 coal-fired power plants, excluding landfill emissions, food loss, and trash. The EPA has stringent guidelines for biosolids treatment and disposal. As a result, their beneficial use is encouraged in agriculture and land reclamation. Thus, this regulatory framework motivates municipalities to invest in advanced treatment technologies, improving biosolids quality and increasing their utilization in multiple areas. Moreover, increasing knowledge of soil health and the increased demand for organic fertilizers from farmers are driving the utilization of biosolids as nutrient-rich soil amendments. The changing nature of agricultural activities toward more sustainable practices like organic farming provides support to this factor. Additionally, increasing population and urbanization, which in turn generates more waste, increases wastewater generation, necessitating effective management solutions for biosolids. In sum, regulatory support, agricultural demand, and sustainability initiatives all combine to position the U.S. biosolids market for continued growth.

Europe Biosolids Market Analysis

The European biosolids market is highly influenced by strict environmental regulations and a strong commitment to sustainability. As per IMARC Group, the biofertilizer market in Europe has been estimated at USD 678.9 Million by 2024, indicating the continuously increasing demand for organic soil conditioners, such as biosolids. The Waste and Soil Directive of the EU has encouraged its member states to recycle biosolids as a source rather than treating them as an organic waste stream. Such an environment encourages advanced technologies in treating the biosolids, enhancing safety and quality standards so that the use of such treated biosolids is permissible for agriculture. Another area where biosolids usage can be found increased is the circular economy principles of the EU. Therefore, increasing their usage is for agriculture, landscaping, and also energy. The demand for organic fertilizers and soil amendments is a key driver in the agricultural sector, where farmers are seeking sustainable alternatives to chemical fertilizers. Overall, regulatory support, technological innovation, and market demand for sustainable practices position the European biosolids market for robust growth.

Asia Pacific Biosolids Market Analysis

According to the World Bank, in East Asia and the Pacific, the urbanization rate is about 3% on average, which significantly influences the biosolids industry within the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region. Such rapid urbanization results in more wastewater and, therefore, a need for efficient biosolid management solutions. Asia Pacific will have produced nearly 1.1 Trillion tons of waste by 2030, compared with around 802 Million tons of waste produced in 2016. As cities continue to expand, there is a rising need for waste management practices to be sustainable. Hence, the municipalities opt for advanced treatment technologies. In addition, the increasing awareness about environmental sustainability and soil health is driving the agricultural sector's interest in biosolids as nutrient-rich soil amendments. The shift toward organic fertilizers and sustainable farming practices further enhances market potential. Moreover, stringent environmental regulations are encouraging the beneficial reuse of biosolids, aligning with global sustainability goals. Collectively, these factors create a robust framework for the growth of the biosolids market in APAC, addressing both urbanization challenges and environmental concerns while promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

Latin America Biosolids Market Analysis

In Latin America, the biosolids market is primarily driven by increasing urbanization, which, according to research, has reached approximately 80% in many countries. This rapid urban growth necessitates effective wastewater management solutions, prompting governments to implement regulations that promote the treatment and reuse of biosolids. Recognizing their potential as a resource for agriculture and land rehabilitation, municipalities are investing in advanced treatment technologies. Demand for organic fertilizers from the agricultural sector is also large since farmers are looking for sustainable mechanisms for enhancing soil fertility. Overall, these are what are driving the growth of the biosolids market in the region.

Middle East and Africa Biosolids Market Analysis

The Middle East and Africa are boosted by rapid urbanization. World Bank statistics claim that the MENA region is already at 64% urbanization levels. The sudden urban growth raises the level of wastewater generation to an extent requiring efficient waste management technologies. Governments are waking up to the issues of sustainability practices, leading governments to regulate them toward the treatment and reuse of biosolids. The agricultural sector also has a huge demand for soil improvement and organic fertilizers, as farmers look for cost-effective ways to increase crop yields. These factors are driving the growth of the biosolids market in the region.

Competitive Landscape:

Market players in the U.S. biosolids market are increasingly focusing on innovation and sustainability to address rising demand and environmental concerns. Many key players adopt advanced treatment technologies, like thermal drying, anaerobic digestion, and composting, which improve the quality of biosolids and bring them closer to having zero risk of hazards for applications in agriculture. Such technologies reduce heavy metal and pathogen contaminants and make them more acceptable for use in farming and landscaping. A significant trend is the growing interest in energy recovery from biosolids, with some companies investing in biogas production and waste-to-energy technologies. This provides a sustainable method for handling biosolids and generates renewable energy, contributing to a circular economy model. In addition, market players are focusing on expanding biosolid applications in land reclamation and soil remediation, addressing issues of soil degradation, and promoting environmental sustainability. Strategic partnerships and collaborations with government bodies and research institutions are also increasingly common, as companies work to meet regulatory requirements and improve public perception. These efforts create a positive biosolids market outlook.

The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the biosolids market with detailed profiles of all major companies, including:

• BCR Environmental
• Burch Hydro Inc
• Cambi ASA
• Casella Waste Systems Inc.
• Cleanaway Waste Management Limited
• EnGlobe Corp.
• Lystek International
• Merrell Bros. Inc.
• Recyc Systems Inc.
• Remondis SE & Co. KG (Rethmann SE & Co. KG)
• SYLVIS
• Synagro Technologies
• Walker Industries

Latest News and Developments:

• August 2024: Synagro Technologies Inc. and Denali Water Solutions LLC have mutually agreed to swap biosolids and organics processing operations. Synagro will acquire the municipal biosolids business services from Denali in California. In return, Denali will acquire the industrial non-biosolids organics business of Synagro in Arkansas and Missouri. This expansion allows both firms to expand into key markets, with Synagro focusing on sustainable biosolids growth in the Ozarks and Denali strengthening its operations in Arkansas and Missouri while prioritizing other organic activities in California.
• July 2024: Lantania awarded a EUR 77.3 Million (USD 84.3 Million) contract to construct a biosolids treatment plant in Al Badaa, Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, for the Neom mega-project. The 24-month project entails the design, construction, and commissioning of the plant, coupled with an innovation and demonstration center. As part of its collaboration with Tawzea, Lantania will develop the plant to treat 32,300 kg of biosolids per day in serving a population of 222,000.
• June 2024: Synagro Technologies launched operations at its new biosolids composting facilities in New Jersey and South Carolina, an investment of USD 50 Million. The Cumberland County facility generates 38,000 tons of Class A compost every year from biosolids. The Holly Hill facility converts 75,000 tons of biosolids into 40,000 tons of exceptional quality compost. Both the facilities produce AllGro® compost, a sustainable soil amendment.
• April 2024: Firefly Green Fuels is developing a new pathway to Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) from sewage sludge, a widely available however, challenging-to-dispose biosolid. The UK-based company has teamed up with Haltermann Carless, Petrofac, Chevron Lummus Global, and Anglian Water to construct a pilot facility and commercial plant. This process will convert biosolids into SAF, thereby supporting the decarbonization of aviation while contributing to sustainability and job growth in the UK.
• July 2023: Kiewit Infrastructure West Company recently finished building a solar-powered biosolids drying facility for the Pima County Regional Wastewater Reclamation Department at the Tres Rios WRF in Tucson, Ariz. This Class B biosolids treatment facility dries down to an extent to reduce the volume and make it a good source of high-quality Class A biosolids.

Biosolids Market Report Scope:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the biosolids market from 2019-2033.
• The research study provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the global biosolids market.
• The study maps the leading, and the fastest-growing, regional markets. It further enables stakeholders to identify the key country-level markets within each region.
• Porter's Five Forces analysis assists stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the biosolids industry and its attractiveness.
• Competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides an insight into the current positions of key players in the market.