1. The main objective of this research project is to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the current status of waste management in Kosovo with a particular focus on the development of sustainable management systems. In particular, the research aims to identify potential solutions for the treatment of organic waste and best practices in this area. Through an extensive study of Kosovo’s waste management, focusing on organic waste and drawing comparisons with cities like Giessen and Kirchhain, a detailed plan for sustainable waste management has been developed. Using insights from facility visits, interviews, literature reviews, and surveys, the plan emphasizes composting, anaerobic digestion, and public education to address challenges and promote recycling initiatives. This strategic framework aims to enhance waste reduction, increase public engagement, and implement effective organic waste management practices across Kosovo.
2. Comparison of Different Sewage Treatment Techniques: Microalgae Cultivation Vs. Conventional Activated Sludge Process
Summary- This study compares two methods for wastewater treatment: Microalgae cultivation vs. Conventional activated sludge process, regarding their efficiency in treating wastewater. The focus was on wastewater samples collected from one of Giessen’s wastewater treatment plants and a microalgae pilot plant built to facilitate comparison.
The results obtained from the measurement of nutrients for two months from our pilot plant in Giessen showed that the presence of nutrients has decreased significantly. Our two-month nutrient measurement study at the Giessen pilot plant indicates a significant reduction in nutrient levels. We compared these results with the August 2021 data, which are considered more typical of optimal nutrient removal with microalgae. Since our study was conducted during the colder Autumn-Winter period, it’s clear that nutrient removal by algae is lower, and their growth is less active in cold conditions. The study reveals the presence of pharmaceuticals like Naproxen and Ibuprofen in wastewater, while Diclofenac is undetected. Notably, the wastewater treatment process shows a decline in the levels of Ibuprofen and Naproxen, indicating the success of the conventional treatment method in reducing these substances. However, carbamazepine remains resistant to degradation during the treatment process, presenting a challenge for its reduction. From the results obtained from the measurements of Heavy metals with the same method, we found that they are within acceptable limits, which is critical for the safety of people’s health and environment, considering that the presence of them in high amounts can be very harmful.