asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they will consider increasing incineration of dry sludge deposits, in view of the adverse travel costs of transporting increasing wet sludge deposits to a small number of farms, as long as incineration does not increase pollution fallouts or cause danger to human health. [HL1158]

It is important that the best practical environmental option is taken with regard to sewage sludge. This will vary on a case-by-case basis.

In many circumstances, recycling sludge as a soil improver is the best option. However, where suitable agricultural land is unavailable within a reasonable distance from the sewage works, other options, including incineration, would need to be considered.

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they are planning further work in the United Kingdom to control and reduce the heavy metal content of sludge-impregnated soils, in view of the recent review, by the European Union Commission, aimed at additional quality controls. [HL1159]

There have been long-term investigations in the UK into the effects on soil quality and fertility of the heavy metals present in sewage sludge. Interim results, which were published in November, will help to inform the Government's approach to the sustainable recycling of organic material to land to improve soil quality.

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether biogas output is likely to increase from the treatment of sewage sludge with the latest improvements in anaerobic digestive technology; and whether increased use in public service vehicles or on-site power generation for factories is planned. [HL1162]

The Government aim to encourage the use of renewable energy sources, including biogas produced from sewage sludge. Biogas is a qualifying fuel for both the renewables obligation that applies to the power generation sector and to the forthcoming renewable transport fuel obligation.

There are practical, economic and technical issues which need to be taken into account when deciding on the most appropriate technology for a particular circumstance and use. Therefore, while the Government would look to increased use of renewable energy in vehicles and industry, the source might vary accordingly.