AFRY to support Norrslam in planning Sweden's first full-scale plant for circular recycling

Sewage sludge is a residual product that occurs during the treatment of municipal and industrial wastewater. Today, the largest volumes of sludge are deposited. Stricter regulations from EU now require more responsible management.  

The method of incinerating the sludge has not yet been implemented in Sweden on a large scale, but the technology is well-proven in Germany, for example. AFRY's assignment involves conducting the initial investigations, which includes ensuring that potential risks are identified and managed at an early stage of the project. 

"Through Norrslam, and Sweden's first plant for mono-incineration, we meet environmental requirements while circulating resources. In the work on the development, we are pleased to have now completed the procurement and look forward to using AFRYs expertise in the project," says Jörgen Bergqvist, project manager for Norrslam. 

The sludge is recycled by mono-incineration and the resulting ash is disposed of. his process prevents heavy metals, pharmaceutical residues, PFAS, and microplastics from entering the ecological cycle through landfill. The energy released during combustion is used to generate electricity and provide district heating.  

Part of the circular resource recovery process is to recycle by-products from the incineration ash, especially phosphorus, which reduces dependence on finite resources and plays a crucial role in the green transition for a sustainable future. 

"We are proud to contribute with our expertise in this pioneering project. By integrating proven technology with innovative solutions, we enable the circular recycling of sewage sludge, returning valuable resources safely and sustainably to the cycle. This marks a significant step toward a more resource-efficient and circular future," says Robert Kronblad, Head of Thermal and Renewables at AFRY, Sweden. 

Norrslam is a collaborative project supported by EU funding, including Umeå Energi and the Swedish municipal companies Vakin (owned by the municipalities of Umeå, Vindeln, and Nordmaling) and Miva (owned by the municipality of Örnsköldsvik). More information norrslam.se 

For further information, please contact: 

Maria Rothzén, PR and PA Manager, AFRY  
+46 72 566 19 28, maria.rothzen@afry.com  

AFRY provides engineering, design, digital and advisory services to accelerate the transition towards a sustainable society.  

We are 18,000 devoted experts in industry, energy, and infrastructure sectors, creating impact for generations to come. AFRY has Nordic roots with a global reach, net sales of 27 BSEK and is listed on Nasdaq Stockholm.  

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