An Insight of Component and Typical Mechanism of Sludge Degrader Microbes in Dewatered Sludge

This book chapter provides insights into the potential of wastewater sludge and the characteristics of different types of sludge. Each type of sludge has unique characteristics, microorganism consortium, and reactions that occur within the sludge. The behavior of sludge, typical microorganism degraders, and reactions involved in the natural process transform complex substrates into simpler ones. The presence of microbial degraders is crucial for the exploitation of sludge valorization for future sustainability. The chapter explores the components and typical mechanisms of sludge degrader microbes in dewatered sludge. The understanding of the microbial degraders present in sludge is essential for the development of sustainable approaches to sludge management. The exploitation of sludge valorization has the potential to provide renewable energy sources, contribute to the circular economy, and reduce the environmental impact of sludge disposal. This book chapter highlights the importance of microbial degraders in the transformation of complex substrates into simpler ones and the need for sustainable approaches to exploit the potential of sludge valorization. © 2023, The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd.