This study evaluated pilot-scale sludge treatment reed beds (STRBs) planted with Miscanthus x giganteus for their ability to remove 49 organic micropollutants under different aeration regimes over 16 months. Results showed that 21 of 25 frequently detected compounds were degraded by up to 99% independent of aeration type, suggesting environmental conditions play a greater role than aeration in removal efficiency. However, persistent compounds such as benzalkonium chlorides, carbamazepine, and propranolol resisted degradation or accumulated, raising environmental concerns. A preliminary risk assessment indicated that trimethoprim and azithromycin posed the highest risks to soil microorganisms, while most other micropollutants showed low ecological risk. These findings highlight STRBs as effective for sludge stabilisation and pollutant reduction but emphasise the need for further study of recalcitrant compounds before safe biosolid reuse.
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