JEDDAH: Saudi scholarship student Basma Khallaf has discovered a method that helps in the recovery of ascaris eggs from sludge samples used as natural fertilizers in agriculture, the Saudi Cultural Mission (SACM) in Australia has announced.

Her study has shown a new approach and showed the highest recovery rate, providing an easy, accurate and effective method to detect ascaris in sludge.

“The study aims to reduce the time required to stockpile biosolids which will reduce storage costs and increase the nutrient value to agriculture,” she said. “This will result in a substantial increase in land application of biosolids by providing data to support revision of the guidelines. This outcome supports government policy on the beneficial use of biosolids and the benefits will be economic, environmental and social.”

Basma who is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in biology and biotechnology at RMIT University in Australia said that her research had been mentioned in an International Water Association (IWA) journal earlier this year.

“As I have explored and evaluated sludge treatment in my Ph.D. work, I have been able to share my knowledge with institutes and research groups working on sludge treatment,” said Basma. “It’s my pleasure to be involved in anything related to the project.”

Australian corporations, including South East Water and ALS Water Resources Group, have recognized Basma’s discovery, and called for collaboration and observation of her technique.