Run4Life Project Risk and Sustainability Assessment Report

This report presents a comprehensive risk and sustainability assessment for the Run4Life project, an EU Horizon 2020 initiative (grant No 730285) focused on recovering nutrients and water from domestic wastewater using decentralised technologies. Conducted over 48 months from June 2017, the project employs advanced systems such as vacuum toilets, hyper-thermophilic anaerobic digestion (HTAD), and bio-electrochemical systems (BES) across four demonstration sites: Sneek (NL), Vigo (ES), Ghent (BE), and Helsingborg (SE). The assessment evaluates environmental, health, socio-economic, and governance impacts using life cycle assessment (LCA), quantitative microbial risk assessment (QMRA), and Responsible Research and Innovation (RRI) indicators. Key outcomes include reduced energy use, recovery of bioenergy and fertilisers, and improved water reuse. Environmental impacts are measured via midpoint and endpoint indicators, including climate change (kg CO2-eq per FU), toxicity (kg 1,4-dichlorobenzene eq.), and ecosystem damage. Human health risks are assessed using Disability-Adjusted Life Years (DALYs), with WHO benchmarks applied. The HACCP framework ensures safety in food and water production. Socio-economic indicators track cost savings, job creation, and SME revenue from nutrient fertiliser production. Public engagement, training, and policy recommendations are integral to the assessment. The report, led by the University of Santiago de Compostela and revised on 30/04/2019, provides a robust evidence base for sustainable, circular wastewater management.