Sewage sludge boosts maize yield and quality without harming soil health.
Sewage sludge was tested on maize crops to see its effects on yield and soil quality. The sludge met safety limits for heavy metals, with 40 t/ha being the best rate for crop nutrients. Maize grown with sludge had normal levels of copper and nickel, and no harmful elements like chromium or lead. Soil with sludge had more organic matter and better respiration. Regulations require safe sludge treatments and limits on pollutants. The study shows that using sewage sludge on maize can be beneficial for crops and soil health when done correctly.