What is the purpose of sludge digestion in sewage treatment?

The purpose of sludge digestion in sewage treatment is to stabilize and reduce the volume of sludge. During this process, microorganisms break down organic matter present in the sludge, converting it into simpler compounds. This biological decomposition leads to a substantial reduction in the mass and volume of sludge, making it easier to handle, transport, and ultimately dispose of. Additionally, the stabilization process helps to decrease the odors and pathogens associated with the sludge, which is crucial for maintaining environmental and public health standards.

This function of sludge digestion is critical in the overall sewage treatment process, as it transforms waste byproducts into less harmful forms while also optimizing the operational efficiency of treatment facilities by minimizing the waste that needs further processing or disposal. The other options do not accurately capture the primary role of sludge digestion within the sewage treatment context.