The Australasian Biosolids Partnership and Public Perceptions

The Australian water industry recognized the need for the public, along with the managers of biosolids, to be better educated about the benefits and risks, along with management of these risks, for biosolids in Australia. Public perceptions and their influence on biosolids management were considered the most significant issue. After several years of discussions a national Biosolids Steering Group was established to develop a model for Australia and New Zealand. The result is the Australasian Biosolids Partnership (ABP). This paper reports on the drivers for the ABP, the differences to the NBP and SORP and the key components of the partnership. The approach to ownership and funding to ensure sustainable operation of the partnership are also discussed. The potential for wider application is explored. The paper also reports on the process in developing the ABP and gaining water industry buy-in.