N₂O Modeling: current solutions and new avenues

This paper addresses the critical issue of nitrous oxide (N₂O) emissions from wastewater treatment plants, which have a significant impact on climate change. The article discusses the challenges associated with measuring and mitigating N₂O emissions, as well as the importance of understanding the complex pathways through which N₂O is produced in wastewater treatment processes. The article places a special focus on the role of modeling tools in enhancing our understanding of N₂O emissions and supporting mitigation strategies. Various modeling approaches, including mechanistic models, data-driven models, and integrated computational fluid dynamics-biokinetic models, are discussed in the context of predicting and controlling N₂O emissions. Case studies and examples from real-world applications demonstrate the effectiveness of modeling approaches in identifying emission hotspots, optimizing process control strategies, and developing mitigation measures. Overall, the article emphasizes the significance of modeling in addressing the challenges of N₂O emissions in the water sector and advancing sustainability goals.