Utilising fungi to recycle nutrients from food industry wastewater

"Fungal-based wastewater treatment is a significant step towards a sustainable and circular bioeconomy, benefiting all stakeholders. The food industry gains cost savings and additional revenue, while water bodies in areas with weaker regulations are protected from untreated discharges. Additionally, the capture and recycling of nutrients from the wastewater into usable biomass promotes circularity", summarises researcher Danielle Bansfield from the Finnish Environment Institute.

There is great demand for circular wastewater treatment methods in the food industry, which produces large amounts of nutrient-rich wastewater, which is either treated at wastewater plants or, in some regions, discharged untreated, causing environmental harm. Traditional treatment removes nutrients but does not recover them. Given rising demand and climate change-driven resource scarcity, reusing both nutrients and water is increasingly important.

Different fungi optimal for biofuel, feed, or dietary supplement production

The dissertation results are promising. The study identified Penicillium corylophilum as the most effective species for nutrient removal and biomass production, and the biomass was found to be a suitable feedstock for biofuel. Geotrichum candidum showed potential for feed or dietary supplements. Among the five food production waste streams investigated, whey proved to be the best growth medium.

Another application for the fungal biomass, fungal-assisted microalgal harvesting, was investigated. Fungal-based microalgal harvesting is more sustainable than traditional microalgal harvesting methods, which are chemical and energy-intensive. During the study, a new, more rapid and resource-efficient fungal-assisted microalgal harvesting method was developed.

Practical applications: a significant opportunity for the food industry and circular economy

Utilising fungi in food industry wastewater treatment presets significant opportunities for further development and industrial applications, offering early adopters a competitive advantage.

Such innovations are essential for the sustainability transition. Implementing nutrient recovery from wastewater and converting it into valuable bioproducts would advance the circular bioeconomy. While challenges remain, this research provides a strong foundation for future progress.

Dissertation defence and thesis

• Time: Friday, 7th March 2025, 12:00–15:00
• Place: Computer Science Building, Aalto University, Otaniemi, Konemiehentie 2, 02150 Espoo. Online (aalto.zoom.us)
• Event Language: English
• Event page: Public defence in Water and Environmental Engineering, M.Sc. Danielle Bansfield (aalto.fi)
• Thesis:  Pioneering circular pathways: improved recycling of nutrients in industrial wastewaters into value-added products. Thesis available for public display 10 days prior to the defence.

Further Information

Researcher Danielle Bansfield, Finnish Environment Institute (Syke), tel. +358 295 251 934, firstname.lastname@syke.fi