The study addresses the problem of the possible presence of legionella in waste streams. By analysing the main physiological and ecological characteristics of legionella and the various waste streams, potentially "at risk" streams and wastes were identified. A case study was then carried out in a composting centre receiving WWTP sludge and green waste. Legionella was detected in activated sludge tanks, lagoons, wastewater treatment plant effluent and maturing compost. This suggests that, following treatment involving biological processes (composting platforms and the majority of wastewater treatment plants), Legionella may be found in stages further downstream in these processes. In addition, apart from the reception, transfer or pre-treatment phases of initially contaminated waste, "non-biological" treatment processes do not include stages that are conducive to maintaining a Legionella reservoir on site. We hope that this pioneering work will pave the way for further investigations that will consolidate the information provided here.
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