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The shape of sludge regulation in Europe is undergoing a period of great evolution in which the economical and social implications connected to waste minimization, reuse, and utilization of its material and energy content are also taken into consideration together with the general objective of environmental protection. In this paper the management options for biodegradable wastes, i.e., biological treatments, land application and landfilling, are discussed in relation to the present European legislation in view of its implementation. Activities carried out at European level for the development of standardized testing methods and procedures for sludge characterization are also outlined. ABSTRACT: This review concerns the generation and fate of aerosols generated from the treatment of wastewater, composting plants, and during handling and land application of wastewater and biosolids. Though many aerosol studies have been conducted on composting and wastewater treatment plants, few studies have been conducted on land-applied biosolids. Wastewater treatment and composting plants generate almost a constant source of aerosols during plant operation, but these aerosols tend to be contained within the plants and pose the greatest risk towards the workers themselves. Land application sites; whether wastewater application or biosolids application, are of concern as communities are beginning to interface with rural areas