Water is one of the most important natural resources that we have. Not only is it necessary for life, but it is also essential for industry, agriculture and energy production. Without water, our world would grind to a halt.
However, water is a limited resource and as our population grows, so makes the demand for our water supplies. To meet this demand, we need to use water more efficiently and protect it from pollution.
What is Wastewater?
Wastewater is any water used and then discharged into the environment. It includes sewage, greywater (used water from baths, showers, washing machines, etc.) and stormwater (rainwater that runs off surfaces).
Wastewater can contain a variety of pollutants, including bacteria, viruses, nutrients, chemicals and solids. If left untreated, it can seriously threaten human health and the environment.
Why is Wastewater Treatment Important?
Wastewater treatment is the process of removing pollutants from wastewater before it is discharged into the environment. It is essential for protecting our water resources and preventing pollution.
Wastewater treatment is vital for the following reasons:
To protect human health
As human beings, we rely on water for our very survival. We use water daily for drinking, cooking, bathing, washing and flushing toilets. If wastewater is not treated correctly, it can contaminate our water supplies and make us sick. Some of the contamination can cause serious diseases, such as cholera and typhoid.
To protect the environment
Wastewater discharge can pollute our rivers, lakes and oceans. It can also contaminate the soil and groundwater, making it unsafe for human use. Wastewater treatment helps to reduce pollution and protect our natural resources. These resources are essential for our survival and well-being.
To save money
Treating wastewater is cheaper than cleaning up pollution. It is also more cost-effective to prevent pollution in the first place. Investing in wastewater treatment can save money in the long run. The same water treated can also be reused for different purposes.
To promote sustainable development
As the world population grows, so does the demand for our water resources. In order to meet this demand, we need to use water more efficiently and protect it from pollution. Wastewater treatment plays a vital role in sustainable development by helping to preserve our water resources.
How is Wastewater Treated?
Wastewater treatment is a process that involves several steps. These steps are designed to remove pollutants from wastewater before it is discharged into the environment.
- The first step in wastewater treatment is collection. This involves collecting sewage and stormwater from homes, businesses and other properties. The collected wastewater is then transported to a treatment plant.
- The next step is screening. This involves removing large objects, such as sticks, leaves and stones, from the wastewater. The screened wastewater is then transported to the next stage of treatment.
- The other stage is removing solid pollutants from the wastewater, such as human waste. The treated wastewater is then transported to the next stage of treatment.
- Secondary treatment is the next step in wastewater treatment to remove organic pollutants from the wastewater, such as bacteria and viruses. The treated wastewater is then transported to the next stage of treatment.
- The final step in wastewater treatment is discharge, the releasing of treated wastewater into the environment. The treated wastewater is safe for human use and does not threaten the environment.
Contact your local wastewater treatment plant or environmental organisation today if you’re interested in learning more about wastewater treatment and its importance.
