Biosolids Market
By Treatment Type;
Anaerobic Digestion, Composting, Thermal Treatment, Land Application and OthersBy End-User;
Agriculture, Landscaping, Forestry, Soil Amendment and Energy ProductionBy Feedstock Source;
Municipal Wastewater Treatment Plants, Industrial Wastewater Treatment Plants, Agricultural Operations, Food Processing Facilities and OthersBy Geography;
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa and Latin America - Report Timeline (2021 - 2031)Biosolids Market Overview
Biosolids Market (USD Million)
Biosolids Market was valued at USD 5,117.40 million In the year 2024. The size of this market is expected to increase to USD 7,248.84 million by the year 2031, while growing at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.1%.
Biosolids Market
*Market size in USD million
CAGR 5.1 %
| Study Period | 2025 - 2031 |
|---|---|
| Base Year | 2024 |
| CAGR (%) | 5.1 % |
| Market Size (2024) | USD 5,117.40 Million |
| Market Size (2031) | USD 7,248.84 Million |
| Market Concentration | Medium |
| Report Pages | 340 |
Major Players
- Alka-Tech
- BIODISK
- Casella Waste Systems
- GeoEnvironment Technologies
- Symbiont
- Wm. H. Reilly & Co
- Celgene
- Sanofi
Market Concentration
Consolidated - Market dominated by 1 - 5 major players
Biosolids Market
Fragmented - Highly competitive market without dominant players
The Biosolids Market is experiencing significant growth, driven by the rising emphasis on sustainable waste management and the increasing adoption of resource recovery practices. Over 60% of wastewater treatment facilities worldwide are integrating biosolid processing technologies to produce energy-rich byproducts and nutrient-based fertilizers, supporting environmental protection and circular economy initiatives.
Growing Demand for Renewable Resources
The market is benefiting from the rising utilization of biosolids in agriculture, where they are applied as organic fertilizers to improve soil health and crop productivity. Nearly 55% of treated biosolids are being repurposed for agricultural use, reducing dependency on chemical fertilizers and driving sustainable farming practices across industries.
Technological Advancements Driving Efficiency
Innovations in thermal hydrolysis, anaerobic digestion, and advanced drying techniques are enhancing biosolid treatment processes and improving operational efficiency. Around 45% of modern wastewater treatment plants have adopted these technologies, enabling higher energy recovery rates and producing biosolids with improved nutrient content for diverse applications.
Rising Adoption in Energy Generation
The use of biosolids for biogas production and renewable energy generation is rapidly increasing, with approximately 35% of facilities converting biosolids into energy to power industrial operations. This shift toward energy self-sufficiency is creating cost-saving opportunities while supporting carbon-neutral initiatives and strengthening environmental sustainability goals.
Future Growth Opportunities
The biosolids market is projected to gain momentum due to increasing investments in infrastructure upgrades, supportive environmental regulations, and rising demand for eco-friendly alternatives. With over 50% of wastewater facilities planning biosolid-focused expansion projects, the market is expected to remain a critical contributor to sustainable resource utilization.
Biosolids Market Key Takeaways
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The global shift toward a circular economy is transforming biosolids from waste byproducts into valuable resources for sustainable applications.
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Agricultural use remains the key driver as biosolids offer nutrient-rich organic matter that enhances soil fertility and reduces dependence on synthetic fertilizers.
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Stringent environmental regulations in developed regions are driving investment in advanced biosolid treatment technologies while creating barriers for non-compliant operators.
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The Asia-Pacific region is witnessing accelerated growth due to rapid urbanization, infrastructure expansion, and increasing wastewater generation.
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Innovations in anaerobic digestion, thermal drying, and pathogen reduction are improving product quality and enabling wider adoption across multiple end uses.
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Market growth faces challenges from public perception, logistics, and competing waste management solutions, emphasizing the need for transparency and technological efficiency.
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Future opportunities lie in diversified applications such as land reclamation, renewable energy recovery, and use in construction materials within circular value chains.
Biosolids Market Recent Developments
- In January 2023: Synagro Technologies Inc., a provider of biosolids and residual solutions, acquired Burch Hydro Inc., an Ohio-based premier provider of biosolids and lime-residuals management and land application.
- In November 2022: The San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC) and Cambi announced an agreement for the installation of three thermal hydrolysis systems as part of the Biosolids Digester Facilities Project at the Southeast Treatment Plant in San Francisco. The SFPUC is investing over USD 3 billion to upgrade and modernize the Southeast Treatment Plant, the city's largest wastewater treatment facility. This project is part of a more extensive citywide Sewer System Improvement Program.
Biosolids Market Segment Analysis
In this report, the Biosolids Market has been segmented by Treatment Type, End-User, Feedstock Source and Geography.
Biosolids Market, Segmentation by Treatment Type
The Treatment Type segmentation reflects how biosolids are processed to meet regulatory compliance, enhance nutrient recovery, and reduce pathogens and odors. Market strategies increasingly prioritize operational efficiency, energy self-sufficiency, and carbon reduction, driving investments in technologies that enable circular use. Buyers evaluate CAPEX/OPEX trade-offs, local permitting constraints, and end-use quality specifications, shaping adoption across utilities and private operators. Partnerships between technology vendors, EPC firms, and municipalities are central to scaling modern solutions and expanding service footprints.
Anaerobic DigestionAnaerobic digestion supports renewable energy production through biogas while stabilizing biosolids for beneficial use. Utilities leverage co-digestion with organic wastes to improve gas yields and offset energy costs, aligning with decarbonization goals. Projects often feature PPP models, performance guarantees, and long-term O&M contracts to de-risk operations and ensure consistent biosolids quality for land application or advanced drying.
CompostingComposting transforms biosolids into mature products for landscaping, horticulture, and soil amendment markets. Operators emphasize odor control, feedstock blending, and curing optimization to deliver reliable nutrient profiles and meet local acceptance criteria. Growth opportunities arise from retail distribution tie-ups, branded product lines, and community engagement that strengthens market access and counters siting challenges.
Thermal TreatmentThermal treatment—including drying, gasification, and incineration—targets volume reduction, sanitization, and potential energy recovery. Procurement decisions weigh energy prices, emissions limits, and the ability to handle variable feedstock. Vendors are focusing on heat integration, emissions controls, and resilient ash management strategies, while utilities explore waste-to-energy integration and regional hubs to optimize throughput.
Land ApplicationLand application remains a cost-effective pathway where regulations and public acceptance permit nutrient recycling. Stakeholders prioritize traceability, soil health outcomes, and agronomic value to reinforce demand among growers. Partnerships with agronomy advisors and farmer networks help standardize application protocols and address risk perception, supporting long-term program resilience.
OthersThe Others category includes emerging and niche processes such as alkaline stabilization, advanced oxidation, and hybrid systems tailored to site conditions. Utilities trial pilot-scale deployments to validate lifecycle impacts, ensure regulatory alignment, and map product-market fit across local end uses. Successful models typically blend technology modularity with service guarantees that mitigate operational uncertainty.
Biosolids Market, Segmentation by End-User
The End-User view highlights where biosolids-derived products create measurable value—from crop nutrition to energy recovery. Demand is shaped by regional regulations, soil characteristics, and buyer priorities around cost, performance, and sustainability. Suppliers differentiate via quality assurance, application support, and logistics, while forging distribution partnerships that unlock local and regional markets.
AgricultureAgriculture leverages biosolids for nitrogen, phosphorus, and organic matter to enhance soil structure and yields. Programs succeed when they align with crop calendars, deliver consistent nutrient analyses, and manage application rates to meet environmental stewardship goals. Collaboration with co-ops and farm advisors supports adoption and builds confidence in long-term soil health outcomes.
LandscapingLandscaping uses composted and blended biosolids in turf, urban greening, and reclamation projects. Buyers emphasize aesthetic quality, particle size, and odor control to ensure user acceptance in public spaces. Growth is propelled by municipal green infrastructure initiatives and public–private collaborations that scale supply and distribution into retail channels.
ForestryForestry applications target site remediation and nutrient replenishment in managed forests and degraded lands. Project economics consider terrain access, application equipment, and long-term monitoring. Partnerships with forest agencies and research groups help quantify carbon sequestration and ecosystem benefits, supporting permitting and stakeholder alignment.
Soil AmendmentSoil amendment markets value biosolids for improving water retention, microbial activity, and cation exchange capacity. Suppliers position standardized grades with clear spec sheets and QA/QC protocols to reduce variability and meet landscaping, horticulture, and restoration needs. Branding and third-party certifications strengthen acceptance and create opportunities in premium segments.
Energy ProductionEnergy production spans biogas-to-power, renewable heat, and integration with CHP or grid interconnections. Project developers model tipping fees, energy offtake, and renewable incentives to secure bankability. Utilities increasingly evaluate resource recovery hubs that combine digestion, drying, and advanced conversion for resilient revenue streams.
Biosolids Market, Segmentation by Feedstock Source
Feedstock Source determines consistency, contaminants profile, and downstream product suitability. Procurement strategies focus on long-term supply agreements, robust pre-treatment, and monitoring to safeguard product quality across applications. Blending approaches balance nutrient content and process stability, while regional infrastructure and collection logistics influence scalability.
Municipal Wastewater Treatment PlantsMunicipal WWTPs are the primary biosolids source, emphasizing regulatory compliance, reliable volumes, and standardized processing. Upgrades often integrate digestion, dewatering, and drying to optimize handling and lower costs. Collaboration with municipal authorities and private operators supports modernization and long-term product outlets.
Industrial Wastewater Treatment PlantsIndustrial WWTPs contribute specialized streams that require vigilant pre-treatment and quality control. Operators deploy monitoring and segregation to manage variability and ensure downstream acceptance. Contracts typically include spec-based guarantees and traceability to maintain confidence across end-users.
Agricultural OperationsAgricultural operations add manures and residues that can enhance co-digestion performance and nutrient value. Successful programs coordinate storage, timing, and biosecurity to balance seasonal flows and minimize risk. Regional hubs and logistics partnerships improve year-round reliability and cost efficiency.
Food Processing FacilitiesFood processing facilities supply high-strength organics that boost biogas production and support circular waste valorization. Suppliers invest in pre-treatment, dosing controls, and QA/QC to maintain digester stability and deliver predictable outputs. Long-term offtake agreements for energy or soil products enhance project bankability.
OthersThe Others category includes diverse organics such as yard waste, slaughterhouse residues, and institutional streams. Blending and contaminant management are critical to maintain product consistency and meet regulatory thresholds. Pilot collaborations help validate process performance and inform scale-up decisions.
Biosolids Market, Segmentation by Geography
In this report, the Biosolids Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions: North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.
Regions and Countries Analyzed in this Report
North America exhibits mature infrastructure, robust regulatory frameworks, and high adoption of advanced digestion and thermal systems. Utilities prioritize greenhouse gas reduction and renewable energy targets, encouraging integrated resource recovery hubs. Strategic partnerships among municipalities, private operators, and technology providers underpin expansions and modernization programs.
EuropeEurope emphasizes circular economy policies, stringent environmental standards, and strong public acceptance for nutrient recycling. Countries invest in energy-efficient solutions, optimized dewatering, and emissions control to meet sustainability objectives. Cross-border collaboration and EU-aligned funding mechanisms support innovation and scalable deployments.
Asia PacificAsia Pacific is characterized by rapid urbanization, growing municipal capacity, and varied regulatory maturity. Investments target new WWTPs, modular digestion, and composting to serve expanding cities and peri-urban regions. Market entrants leverage technology transfer, local EPC alliances, and training programs to accelerate adoption and ensure operational reliability.
Middle East & AfricaMiddle East & Africa focuses on water-scarcity resilience, biosolids stabilization, and cost-effective solutions suited to climate conditions. Governments and utilities explore energy recovery and land rehabilitation use cases, often via PPP frameworks. Growth depends on expanding wastewater coverage, optimizing logistics, and building local capabilities for long-term operations.
Latin AmericaLatin America is advancing with programs that couple infrastructure upgrades and community-focused land application. Stakeholders balance budget constraints with the need for quality assurance, odor control, and consistent nutrient profiles. Regional opportunities arise from multilateral funding, technology partnerships, and training that strengthens operator performance.
Market Trends
This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Biosolids Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.
Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis
Drivers:
- Increasing Demand for Sustainable Fertilizers
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Wastewater Treatment Expansion - The Global Biosolids Market is experiencing significant expansion propelled by the growth in wastewater treatment initiatives worldwide. With increasing urbanization and industrialization, the generation of wastewater has surged, necessitating the expansion and upgrading of wastewater treatment infrastructure across various regions. This expansion is driven by stringent environmental regulations aimed at mitigating water pollution and protecting public health, spurring investments in advanced wastewater treatment technologies including biosolids management.
Moreover, as governments and industries prioritize sustainable development goals, there is a growing recognition of the potential of biosolids as a valuable resource in the circular economy. Biosolids, derived from wastewater treatment processes, are rich in organic matter and nutrients, making them suitable for soil amendment and agricultural use. The expansion of wastewater treatment facilities not only addresses environmental concerns but also creates opportunities for resource recovery and utilization, driving the growth of the global biosolids market.
Restraints:
- Public Perception
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Strict Regulations - The Global Biosolids Market operates under stringent regulations aimed at ensuring the safe and responsible management of biosolids from wastewater treatment processes. These regulations vary across regions and countries but typically encompass guidelines for biosolids treatment, handling, storage, transportation, and application.
One of the primary objectives of these regulations is to mitigate potential risks associated with pathogens, heavy metals, and other contaminants present in biosolids, thereby safeguarding public health and the environment. Regulatory authorities often set specific standards for pathogen reduction, nutrient content, and trace metal concentrations in biosolids intended for various applications, such as agricultural land application, composting, or landfill disposal.
Moreover, regulations governing biosolids management also address issues related to odor control, dust suppression, and vector attraction reduction to minimize potential nuisances and adverse impacts on surrounding communities. Compliance with these regulations requires wastewater treatment facilities, biosolids processors, land appliers, and other stakeholders to implement robust management practices and monitoring systems to ensure adherence to regulatory requirements.
While these regulations play a crucial role in protecting public health and the environment, they also present challenges for stakeholders in the biosolids industry. Compliance with regulatory standards often entails significant investments in infrastructure, technology, and operational practices. Additionally, navigating the complex regulatory landscape across different jurisdictions requires expertise and resources, posing barriers to market entry and expansion for some companies.
Overall, strict regulations governing the biosolids market underscore the importance of responsible stewardship and sustainable management practices to ensure the safe and beneficial use of biosolids while mitigating potential risks to human health and the environment. As regulatory frameworks continue to evolve and become more stringent, stakeholders must remain vigilant and adaptable to meet compliance requirements and maintain market competitiveness in the global biosolids market.
Opportunities:
- Technological Advancements
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Focus on Land Reclamation -The Global Biosolids Market is increasingly focusing on land reclamation as a significant application area. Biosolids, derived from wastewater treatment processes, offer a sustainable solution for restoring degraded lands and enhancing soil quality. Land reclamation involves the restoration of disturbed or contaminated land to its natural or productive state, and biosolids play a crucial role in this process by replenishing soil nutrients, improving soil structure, and promoting vegetation growth.
Biosolids contain organic matter, essential nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus, and beneficial microorganisms, making them valuable soil amendments for land reclamation projects. By applying biosolids to degraded or barren lands, stakeholders can revitalize ecosystems, mitigate soil erosion, and promote biodiversity. Additionally, biosolids help sequester carbon in the soil, contributing to climate change mitigation efforts.
The growing focus on sustainable land management practices, coupled with increasing environmental awareness, is driving the adoption of biosolids for land reclamation globally. Governments, industries, and environmental organizations are increasingly recognizing the benefits of biosolids in restoring degraded lands, reclaiming mine sites, and rehabilitating disturbed ecosystems. This trend is expected to fuel further growth in the Global Biosolids Market, as stakeholders continue to explore innovative ways to address land degradation and promote environmental sustainability through the responsible use of biosolids in land reclamation initiatives.
Biosolids Market Competitive Landscape Analysis
Biosolids Market is characterized by a competitive ecosystem where major producers focus on sustainable resource recovery and advanced treatment methods to maintain their strong position. Companies emphasize strategies like partnerships, mergers, and technological innovation to strengthen their operational footprint. With more than 65% of the share concentrated among leading players, the sector reflects a structured and growth-driven environment.
Market Structure and Concentration
The market exhibits a moderately consolidated structure, with a significant percentage of production managed by top-tier firms. Around 60% of total output is controlled by large-scale operators through collaborative strategies and long-term partnerships. Mid-sized companies are increasingly expanding their regional footprint, driven by sustainable processing innovations and integrated biosolids management systems.
Brand and Channel Strategies
Prominent market participants leverage strong brand positioning and diversified channel strategies to enhance their presence across municipal and industrial sectors. Nearly 55% of their distribution relies on direct service agreements and public-private partnerships. Strategic branding initiatives focus on highlighting environmental compliance, cost efficiency, and circular economy solutions.
Innovation Drivers and Technological Advancements
Innovation remains a core driver, with approximately 50% of market investments allocated to advanced treatment and technological advancements. Companies are developing high-efficiency digesters, thermal drying systems, and energy recovery technologies. These innovations enhance resource utilization, reduce operational costs, and support long-term growth strategies in the circular economy framework.
Regional Momentum and Expansion
Regional expansion strategies are increasingly shaping competitive positioning, with over 45% of market players investing in strategic expansion across key urban and agricultural regions. Collaborative infrastructure projects, merger-driven growth, and sustainable application programs are enabling companies to strengthen their regional presence and accelerate service delivery capacity.
Future Outlook
The future outlook of the market indicates a steady rise in technological integration, with more than 70% of companies expected to align their strategies toward sustainable development initiatives. Increased investment in smart processing systems, enhanced treatment capacity, and circular innovation will continue to drive long-term growth and industry competitiveness.
Key players in Biosolids Market include:
- Synagro Technologies
- Veolia Environnement
- SUEZ
- Clean Harbors
- Evoqua Water Technologies
- Harsco Corporation
- Waste Management
- Republic Services
- American Water Works
- Jacobs Engineering
- REMONDIS
- Cambi
- FCC Group
- Englobe
- Cleanaway
In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:
- Market Share Analysis
- Company Overview and Product Portfolio
- Key Developments
- Financial Overview
- Strategies
- Company SWOT Analysis
- Introduction
- Research Objectives and Assumptions
- Research Methodology
- Abbreviations
- Market Definition & Study Scope
- Executive Summary
- Market Snapshot, By Treatment Type
- Market Snapshot, By End-User
- Market Snapshot, By Feedstock Source
- Market Snapshot, By Region
- Biosolids Market Dynamics
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Drivers
- Increasing Demand for Sustainable Fertilizers
- Wastewater Treatment Expansion
- Restraints
- Public Perception
- Strict Regulations
- Opportunities
- Technological Advancements
- Focus on Land Reclamation
- Drivers
- PEST Analysis
- Political Analysis
- Economic Analysis
- Social Analysis
- Technological Analysis
- Porter's Analysis
- Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- Bargaining Power of Buyers
- Threat of Substitutes
- Threat of New Entrants
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Competitive Rivalry
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Market Segmentation
- Biosolids Market, By Treatment Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Anaerobic Digestion
- Composting
- Thermal Treatment
- Land Application
- Others
- Biosolids Market, By End-User , 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Agriculture
- Landscaping
- Forestry
- Soil Amendment
- Energy Production
- Biosolids Market, By Feedstock Source, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Municipal Wastewater Treatment Plants
- Industrial Wastewater Treatment Plants
- Agricultural Operations
- Food Processing Facilities
- Others
- Biosolids Market, By Geography, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- North America
- United States
- Canada
- Europe
- Germany
- United Kingdom
- France
- Italy
- Spain
- Nordic
- Benelux
- Rest of Europe
- Asia Pacific
- Japan
- China
- India
- Australia & New Zealand
- South Korea
- ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Countries)
- Rest of Asia Pacific
- Middle East & Africa
- GCC
- Israel
- South Africa
- Rest of Middle East & Africa
- Latin America
- Brazil
- Mexico
- Argentina
- Rest of Latin America
- North America
- Biosolids Market, By Treatment Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Competitive Landscape
- Company Profiles
- Synagro Technologies
- Veolia Environnement
- SUEZ
- Clean Harbors
- Evoqua Water Technologies
- Harsco Corporation
- Waste Management
- Republic Services
- American Water Works
- Jacobs Engineering
- REMONDIS
- Cambi
- FCC Group
- Englobe
- Cleanaway
- Company Profiles
- Analyst Views
- Future Outlook of the Market

