Where Does Wastewater Go?
Wastewater is used water that comes from several different sources. Domestic wastewater includes water from homes, businesses, hospitals and schools through sinks, toilets, washing machines, dishwashers, showers and baths. Storm water waste water is rainwater runoff from roofs, roads, gardens, drains and excess groundwater. Industrial wastewater comes from the operation of industries and manufacturing plants. Wastewater from all of these sources travels through sewage lines until ending up in a basin at a wastewater treatment facility.
What Does a Wastewater Treatment Facility Do?
Wastewater treatment facilities process wastewater to separate trash and other material particles from the wastewater until all that remains is sludge and contaminated water. The trash and material particles are removed and disposed of while the sludge and water are treated through several separate processes to remove harmful bacteria. Upon completion, both the sludge and water are used in the environment in healthful, productive methods.
How De-Contaminated Sludge is Used
During the wastewater treatment process, sludge is separated from the water and processed to improve the quality of the material. One method of treatment is the use of good bacteria that feeds on the harmful bacteria and other dangerous microorganisms. The sludge may also be processed in a spinner to remove any additional grit or fine particles. Disinfection may include the use of some chemicals, depending on contaminates in the sludge. When the sludge tests acceptably according to Environmental Protection Agency rules and regulations, it is then considered bio-sludge and can be used on fields as fertilizer and conditioner.
How De-Contaminated Water is Used
Once the sludge is removed, the remaining water is now referred to as liquid effluent. Effluent at this stage is still contaminated with pollutants, possible chemicals and dangerous bacteria. It must be processed by the wastewater treatment plant to remove any of these harmful additives before it can be returned to the environment. Chemicals, irradiation and ultraviolet light may be used to aid in the disinfection of liquid effluent. Once effluent tests acceptably, it's stored in lagoons or ponds for several weeks to allow harmful microorganisms to die off before being released back into the environment. Liquid effluent is sometimes used in farmland irrigation operations.
How Individuals Can Help
People can assist in the treatment of wastewater by conserving water. Water conservation essentially reduces the amount of wastewater that has to be processed at the wastewater facility. Additionally, refrain from putting harmful solutions into drains, sinks and toilets. Residue from harmful chemicals can remain after the wastewater treatment process and could end up back in the environment.
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