Recycling urban organic waste in agriculture: a case study in peri-urban areas around Paris

Abstract

The increasing world population and the improvement of waste collection and treatment are leading to a significant increase of urban waste production. In this context, agricultural use is considered as the most interesting option for the disposal of urban organic waste but little is known about it. Through a case study of two peri-urban areas around Paris, this thesis aims to identify and understand the strengths and weaknesses of the existing networks of agricultural recycling of urban organic waste at the local scale. The work focused on green waste compost and sewage sludge from wastewater treatment plants. Multiple methods were used, including a literature study, interviews with different actors, within-case analyses and cross-case synthesis. Results led to the identification of (a) existing actors and networks, (b) farmers’ interests and motivations, and (c) factors influencing their decisions in using urban organic waste. In France, sewage sludge recycling is much more difficult than green waste composting, because regulations are complex and unstable, and its management raises many questions and debates. In the end, farmers’ decisions are influenced by a variety of agronomical, economical and ethical factors. To conclude, suggestions are proposed to further develop agricultural use of urban organic waste.