IRP Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Title: Towards accurate detection of greenhouse gas emission from wastewater treatment plants

Duration: January 2024 - December 2024
Researchers: Roderik Krebbers, Amir Khodabakhsh, Simona M. Cristescu
Funding: Interdisciplinary Research Platform
Project partners: IPG Photonics Corporation, Jaeger Umwelt-Technik, Hoogheemraadschap de Stichtse Rijnlanden, Hoogheemraadschap Hollands Noorderkwartier

Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) contribute to greenhouse gas (GHG) emission such as CO₂, CH₄, and especially the potent N2O. However, GHG emission datasets from WWTPs with sufficient spatial and temporal coverage are scarce and very few experimental studies report on other climate active gases. To address this need, this project uses a novel multispecies gas sensor capable of open-path gas detection covering large spatial scales of WWTPs. This technique enables detection of several gases and volatiles, retrieving their real-time emission rates, and quantifies the GHG emissions for different WWTPs with unique operational features. This project will enable better quantitative understanding of the current emissions of GHGs and pollutants that impact public health. Improved GHG emission inventories will lead to better decision making on mitigation strategies, thorough evaluation of new green(er) technologies, and improve regional GHG budgets. Hence, providing a long-term benefit in the zero-emission vision and a healthier environment for the society.