About Us
The Midwest Biosolids Association (MBA) was formed through the efforts of a broad spectrum of individuals and organizations, representing universities, municipalities, service providers, state regulators, consultants, and others involved in biosolids management and research in the Midwest. As you may know, the landscape of the biosolids industry is changing rapidly with the increase in emerging issues, such as PFAS, that threaten the societal benefits and cost-effective management of biosolids. These changes highlight the need for our industry to come together to support science, educate, communicate, and collaborate. A cornerstone of this association is promoting the responsible and sustainable management of biosolids, such as land application, thermal treatment, renewable practices, and proper disposal, etc.
In addition to the increase in emerging issues, the formation of the association sprang from increasing pressures on state and federal governments for support of responsible biosolids management, and the tremendous success of this type of association in other regions. For example, for over 25 years the Northeast Biosolids and Residuals Association (NEBRA), has played a significant role in educating its member communities and shaping public policies on emerging biosolids issues. Similarly, the Northwest Biosolids Association and the Mid-Atlantic Biosolids Association have been major contributors in education and addressing policy issues in their respective regions. The MBA is also collaborating with the team working on the formation of a Southeast Biosolids Association.
The biosolids industry and its management methods are no stranger to scrutiny and regulation. For example, while studies consistently show that land application of biosolids that follow the Part 503 regulations is protective of public health and the environment, the practice still has its critics. Utilities that manage their biosolids through disposal in landfills are increasingly facing challenges as capacity in landfills dwindles, new rules prohibit landfilling of certain contaminants, and transportation and other costs grow. Thermal treatment is the most heavily regulated management method with rules under the Clean Water Act as well as stringent Clean Air Act emission requirements. The MBA is here to help the biosolids industry in navigating this tapestry of challenges for all facets of biosolids management in the region.
