👉 The term "sludge" is often used in environmental science and engineering to describe a type of solid waste that accumulates due to bacterial growth. This waste can include organic matter, minerals, and other materials from industrial processes or agricultural runoff. In environmental science, sludges are considered a hazardous material because they can contain harmful chemicals and microorganisms that can cause problems for plants, animals, and humans if not properly treated or managed. They may also contribute to the formation of toxic substances such as
