Nikita Chauhan, Author at Everflow Global

Challenges of Wastewater Treatment at STP/ETP Plant

January 11, 2023January 11, 2023
by Nikita Chauhan

There are a number of issues in wastewater treatment plants, that are associated with the operational challenges to regulatory compliance issues. In order to address these problems, it is important to understand what they are and how they are impacting the plant. The below-given list is of some of the important challenges associated with wastewater treatment plants.

Exceeding the prescribed discharge limits of physicochemical parameters
Energy consumption
Sludge production
Environmental footprints
Issues under STP/ETP management
1. Shortage of resources/technology/field experts
2. Fragmentation of operation (inappropriate data recording)
3. Lack of real-time monitoring for precise output of the system
Seasonal variation
Microbial concentration/inoculum
Algal bloom

A. Exceeding the prescribed discharge limits of physicochemical parameters

Excess levels of suspended solids, biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), nitrogen, and phosphorus. These are the most common pollutants that are caused by exceeding the prescribed limits. These pollutants can lead to a decrease in the water quality of the treated water. And increase the amount of treatment necessary to meet the prescribed limits.

Suspended Solids:

Suspended solids are solid particles, such as dirt, debris, and other organic matter, that are suspended in the wastewater. These solids clog filters and pumps, as well as reduce the efficiency of the treatment process. Excessive amounts of suspended solids can also lead to the release of hazardous substances into the environment.

Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD):

BOD is a measure of the amount of oxygen that microorganisms require to completely break down organic matter in wastewater. If the BOD level is too high, it can disrupt the natural oxygen balance of the aquatic environment. High BOD wastewater is also highly contagious as it contains a high count of pathogenic microorganisms in its heavy load of organic waste. This can even lead to the death of fish and other aquatic organisms.

Mineral and Nutrients:

Chemical contaminants such as Nitrogen, Ammonia, Chlorine, Potassium, Trace metal nutrients, and Phosphorus. These can cause excessive growth of algae and aquatic plants in receiving water bodies. Excess nutrients can also lead to eutrophication, where a body of water becomes oversaturated with nutrients. It can cause a decrease in water quality. This leads to a decrease in dissolved oxygen levels, and the death of aquatic life.

Oil and Grease in ETP:

Oil and grease are both hydrophobic substances that can interfere with the performance of the plant. This is processed by blocking the flow of wastewater and causing anaerobic conditions. FOG-related blockages (due to foul odors and excess growth of bacteria) can result in sewer overflows due to reduced capacity or burst drains and sewer pipes.

Colorants and heavy and toxic metal ions from Metal industries:

Metals like Chromium (Cr), Lead (Pb), Cadmium (Cd), mercury, and Zinc (Zn). These metals come from textile, chemical industries, and other processes where metals are used as catalysts for oxidants. These are capable of causing severe health issues.

Emerging Contaminants:

A wide range of unregulated chemicals of synthetic origin or derived from natural sources, which may be a contender for future regulations are called Emerging Contaminants (ECs) (Xenobiotic, Pharmaceutical, and cosmetic products). The concentration of ECs ranges from ng/L to μg/L, which is comparatively smaller than other pollutants present in water and wastewater. Pharmaceutical active compounds (PhACs) or pharmaceutical contaminants (PCs) are one of the major groups of ECs which can cause inimical effects on living organisms even at very lower concentrations.

B. Energy Consumption:

Wastewater treatment plants consume large amounts of energy, estimated at between 1% and 3% of global energy output. And therefore, energy consumption is one of the prime problems in wastewater treatment plants. The main reasons are increasing energy costs, growing concern over climate change, and shrinking wastewater production resources. Energy-inefficient wastewater treatment processes lead to higher emissions of CO2 and other pollutants, which in turn pose serious environmental threats.

To reduce their energy bill, many wastewater treatment plants have started investing in new technologies. Also, retrofitting older facilities with more efficient systems. Some strategies include: using thermal conditioning instead of boiling; integrating MSW sludge digestion into existing biogas systems. And, increasing the use of containerized technologies such as activated carbon filters. However, even these measures will not be sufficient if plant operators don’t pay close attention to energy usage throughout the entire process chain from extraction to discharge, including grid energy usage as well as fuel and electricity costs.

One way to achieve significant reductions in sewage treatment plant energy demands would be to find ways to treat effluents more effectively. For example, optimizing process operation could result in significant reductions in wastewater temperature, which would reduce energy requirements for cooling systems. In addition, optimizing operations could also lead to reductions in drying time and emissions from organic solids disposal facilities.

C. Sludge Production

Sludge is the solid or semi-solid matter that settles to the bottom of a wastewater treatment facility. It can be a major problem for wastewater treatment plants. Because it often contains high levels of bacteria and other microorganisms.

The problem with sludge protection is that it can lead to serious issues such as clogging (leads to sewage overflow) pipes, damaging equipment, and releasing toxins into the environment. The production of sludge can be attributed to several factors such as high organic loading rates, low aeration rates, and high pH levels.

D. Environmental Footprints

Though wastewater treatment plants are made to restrict the pollution of environmental resources. They can lead to creating more hazardous effects on the environment if mismanaged. It has been studied and found that unregulated WTPs operations contribute to pollution in the environment through their own waste (Kumar et al., 2017). These plants release nearly 40% of their chemical emissions into the air and another 40% into surface water (Kumar et al., 2017 loc. cit.). This means that there are two ways that these plants are contributing to environmental pollution. That is through their own waste or through emissions released by them into surface water or air.

Environmental pollution due to emerging pollutants and modified pollutants at CETP plants realizing toxins, carcinogenic, mutagenic pollutants in nature. CETP effluent usually contains a wide range of pollutants including both emerging and modified pollutants. Emerging pollutants are substances that have only recently been identified as being harmful to the environment. As such, there is little to no regulation on these substances. Modified pollutants, on the other hand, are substances that have been altered by human activity. This can include everything from pesticides to pharmaceuticals. Both of these types of pollutants can be extremely harmful to the environment. Also, they are often found in high concentrations of CETP effluent. This has led to the degradation of water quality and has created serious health hazards for human beings as well as animals. This also causes a loss of biodiversity and ecological imbalance in the ecosystem.

E. Issues under STP/ETP Management

Shortage of Resources/Technology/Field Experts

The wastewater treatment plant is a critical component of wastewater management, responsible for the safe and efficient disposal of liquid waste. Unfortunately, many wastewater treatment plants are facing a major problem of inadequate resources, technology, and field experts to efficiently manage their operations. This shortage of resources is a major cause of concern for wastewater treatment plant operators, as it limits their ability to meet environmental standards and safeguard public health.

Funding

One of the primary causes of the resource shortage is the lack of available funding. Due to their relatively low operating costs, wastewater treatment plants are often overlooked when it comes to budget allocation. This means that the necessary resources, technology, and expertise are not available to the operators, resulting in a sub-standard level of operations.

Need for advanced Technology

There are some technologies to improve the shortage of machinery in Wastewater Treatment Plant:

Modern machinery for inline monitoring of the WTP activities is really necessary. This will efficiently help to understand the exact working conditions and changes happening in any WTP plant. Sensors and devices such as Dissolved O₂, Dissolved CO₂, pH, Temperature, Reactor embedded heat control systems, mechanical parts like baffles, mechanical/pneumatic agitators, efficient water/sludge transfer, etc. can be incorporated into advanced WTPs for enhanced working conditions.
Sludge thickening technology to produce sludge from wastewater: This will make it possible to use the sludge as fertilizer or fuel.
Membrane technology: Efficient membrane technology is required to reduce the BOD/COD of the wastewater at a fast rate. It also helps to reduce nutrients from water such as Carbon, Nitrogen, and Phosphate by allowing bacterial growth. Biomass produced on membrane filters is rich in nitrogen and can be utilized as a good quality fertilizer.
Bacteria-based technology: It can decompose a number of organic substances in wastewater, including cellulose and lignin wastes, into carbon dioxide and nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphate. Bioremediation technology for industrial effluents from Petroleum refineries and the petrochemical industry, Textile and Chemical companies, pharmaceutical industries, etc. requires a specialized microbial consortium for treatment. The generation of efficient microbial consortiums for such wastewater treatment activities is needed for the current WTPs.
Advancement in bioremediation technology – That involves the use of phytoremediation, phycoremediation, bioremediation, and utilization of nature-based processes like artificial wetlands, lagoons, algae ponds, and water streams. This help to clean the wastewater in the tertiary level of water treatment.
Utilize the mineralization of biomass: That is decomposed by bacteria into biochar, which can be used as an effective fertilizer.

Electricity

In a wastewater treatment plant, dropping power because of an energy outage is the maximum common disturbance. If a wastewater remedy facility loses energy, the filtration or purification structures will forestall working, until a backup generator or different power supply is available. If your facility loses electricity, the wastewater will hold amassing till you operate the wastewater treatment machine again.

Manpower (Field experts)

The lack of field experts can make it difficult for wastewater treatment plants to keep up with the latest developments in the industry. Technology is constantly evolving and field experts are necessary to ensure that wastewater treatment plants are able to make full use of the latest advances. Without the necessary expertise, wastewater treatment plants are unable to efficiently and effectively manage their operations. We can overcome this issue by technical or engineered methods. For example, we can use Artificial Intelligence-based simulation tools to build models of wastewater treatment plants and predict their performance.

Fragmentation of Operation (Inappropriate Data Recording)

The problem is that the operations of WTPs are fragmented due to the different levels of government involvement, which can lead to improper data recording. This can lead to a lack of understanding of how the system operates and what needs to be done in order to fix it. There are also issues of trade-offs and unintended consequences. For example, the use of chlorination in WTPs is an effective way to reduce pathogen levels, but it can also decrease the levels of different types of beneficial bacteria, which might lead to an increase in pathogens such as Escherichia coli. The study also highlights that there are few incentives for large industrial wastewater treatment plants to invest in innovation or generate new ideas without a clear understanding of how the system operates. To help address this, the study recommends:

Establishing public-private partnerships to foster innovation and encourage the use of high technology in wastewater treatment
Developing a market-based approach for incentivizing investment in innovation, including a new “wastewater innovation fund”.
Offering financial incentives for increased output from anaerobic digesters, which can generate energy and nutrient-rich biogas that can also be used as a renewable fuel source.

Lack of real-time monitoring for precise output of the system

The reasons for this are many: the complexity of the WTP system is one, but also that the issue is often seen as a “management problem” with little focus on technical solutions. As mentioned earlier in the section on the need for advanced technology real-time monitoring of the WTP would play a very effective role to improve their efficiency. Real-time WTPs monitoring can be done by designing and implementing an automated system in which sensors (such as flow meters, DO, DCO2) that measure processes and parameters (chemical oxygen demand, total suspended solids, pH levels, etc.) are installed at strategic locations within a WTP.

In order to prevent the exceeding of prescribed limits, it is important to have an effective monitoring system in place. This monitoring system should include regular laboratory testing of the wastewater, as well as the implementation of best management practices (BMPs), such as the installation of pre-treatment systems, to reduce the number of pollutants entering the plant. It is also important to ensure that the wastewater treatment plant has the capacity to treat the amount of wastewater that is being produced. If the plant does not have the capacity to treat the wastewater, then additional measures must be taken to reduce the amount of wastewater entering the plant.

F. Seasonal Variation

Seasonal temperature variations impact microbial population and their growth. Variations change the occurrence of specific types of microorganisms in a particular season. This alters the efficiency of WTPs. It has been observed that the sludge from domestic sewage treatment contains greater diversity than industrial wastewater treatment. The core genera in domestic wastewater treatment systems are usually Nitrospira, Caldilinea, Pseudomonas, and the fermentative function microbe-Lactococcus. (2)

Some of the research publications show that seasonal variation also impacts the concentration of the pollutants present in the wastewater. And obviously, if the microbial consortium is varying with seasonal variation the pollutant’s concentration would also change depending on the microbial community. (3)

F. Microbial Concentration/Inoculum

Microbial consortium plays a vital role in the efficient operation of the wastewater treatment plant. Biological treatments are regulated by the microbial community and lack of an adequate concentration of microbes or type of microbes leads to the failure of WTP’s operations. Sewage or domestic water brings an abundance of microbial flora along with it in STP. And, when secondary wastewater treatment begins the same microflora grows well with supplied adequate agitation and oxygenation. With further requirements, the activated sludge which is a very active form of microbial biomass. Also, it is retained in the STP’s secondary treatment units. This helps to provide a continuous supply of active microbial population for the treatment of freshly entering wastewater in STP.

The failure of STP’s secondary treatment unit is observed pertaining to the sudden degradation of activated sludge due to toxic water contaminants. When industrial water with a high concentration of toxic metal ions, and poisonous substances enter STP, oligodynamic actions kill microbial flora and lead to the failure of STP. In such cases finding and removal of industrial effluent sources entering STP water is essential. After which addition of activated sludge from another source or active commercial consortium of bacteria is also obtained as a source of efficient microflora for STP operations.

ETP influent of wastewater is mostly devoid of microorganisms. It requires a specially designed consortium of microorganisms to treat industry-specific wastewater. In many places activated sludge from STP, Cow dung like conventional sources of microorganisms is also tried. However, such a solution may or may not work efficiently due to the lack of potential bacterium to treat industrial effluents. In this case, a commercially derived consortium of potent microorganisms is necessary to utilize. Many commercial suppliers of industrial microorganisms offer effective solutions for a range of industrial effluents. (4)

G. Algae Bloom

Due to the high nutrient content of wastewater sometimes algae flourish in STP/ETP plants. Algae bloom creates problems for machinery and filter assemblies leading to blocking the air and water flow. To address this issue in WTPs, the most commonly used approach is algaecides. Algaecides are chemicals that are specifically designed to kill algae. They can be used to treat the water or effluent in the plant that is released from the plant. There are a number of advantages as well as drawbacks of using algaecides. But, algae bloom in wastewater itself is being termed by many researchers as a potential way of wastewater treatment solution.

In the environment, when water flows in wetlands, lagoons, estuaries, ponds, rivers even seas algae flourishes using available nutrient resources. Algae can consume many nutrients and pollutants including heavy metal ions. They have proved to be the best option to generate completely environment-friendly wastewater treatment solutions. However, this is not yet well explored due to the lack of development in the technology to utilize algae in large-scale wastewater treatment. This needs complete modification of the conventional STP/ETP plants to allow algae to grow along with microbial consortium. This would require separate provisions to be established in the vicinity of the plant for microalgae cultivation and wastewater remediation.

Conclusion

Worldwide with the increasing human population, the need for water resources is shooting higher year by year. Available freshwater resources are already scarce and with climate change issues, this question becoming more serious. Reducing, reusing, and recycling is the best solution to work with available water resources to make it sustainable. Therefore, WTPs play a very essential role in making the wastewater fit to reuse or recycle. However, as discussed in this article there are many problems ranging from operational issues to regulatory compliance making conventional WTP less efficient in their utility. Novel technological interventions are necessary to intervene for sustainable development in the sector of wastewater treatment. This can be achieved by applying environmental solutions with an available STP/ETP setup.

Use of novel bioremediation techniques (eg. phytoremediation, phycoremediation), wastewater lagoons, ponds, artificial wetlands, etc. are now given importance. Zero liquid discharge (ZLD) policy needs to be given importance to retain and reutilize wastewater in industrial, agricultural as well as domestic applications. In a country like India, National Green Tribunal (NGT) like lawmakers, making it mandatory to treat wastewater using various environment-friendly solutions to reduce the environmental impact of wastewater. Such activities will help to sustainably develop the wastewater treatment sector for a better tomorrow.

References:

Kumar, S., Smith, S. R., Fowler, G., Velis, C., Kumar, S. J., Arya, S., … & Cheeseman, C. (2017). Challenges and opportunities associated with waste management in India. Royal Society open science, 4(3), 160764.
Zhang, B., Yu, Q., Yan, G., Zhu, H., & Zhu, L. (2018). Seasonal bacterial community succession in four typical wastewater treatment plants: correlations between core microbes and process performance. Scientific reports, 8(1), 1-11.
Gao, D., Li, Z., Guan, J., & Liang, H. (2017). Seasonal variations in the concentration and removal of nonylphenol ethoxylates from the wastewater of a sewage treatment plant. Journal of Environmental Sciences, 54, 217-223.
Quraishi, T., Kenekar, A., Ranadive, P., & Kamath, G. (2018). Evaluation of Performance of cow dung as Microbial Inoculum in Industrial Wastewater Treatment and its Environmental Implications. Indian J. Sci. Technol, 11, 1-7.

Wastewater Treatment

Sewage and Industrial Wastewater Treatment – Understanding the STP/ETP…

December 29, 2022December 29, 2022
by Nikita Chauhan

What is Wastewater?

Wastewater is a mixture of water and a variety of pollutants, including suspended solids, dissolved organic compounds, nutrients, and microorganisms. Domestic wastewater is typically composed of human waste, food waste, and paper products. Industrial wastewater may include toxic chemicals, heavy metals, oil and grease, and other pollutants.

Suspended solids are the largest component of wastewater and can include anything from toilet paper to food scraps. Dissolved organic compounds, such as detergents, food waste, and solvents, can also be found in wastewater. Heavy metals, salts, and nutrients are also present. Nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, are the primary sources of energy for microorganisms in wastewater. These microorganisms are responsible for breaking down organic matter, which in turn produces carbon dioxide and other gases. This decomposition is essential for the removal of some pollutants, such as ammonia and phosphorus from wastewater.

Health, Environment, and Social concerns associated with wastewater:

Health: Wastewater contains bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can cause diseases such as cholera, dysentery, hepatitis A, and typhoid. These diseases can spread through contaminated water. Wastewater also contains toxic chemicals, such as lead, arsenic, and mercury, which can cause serious health problems if ingested. Poorly treated wastewater leads to water pollution on its release, creating an even greater risk to public health.
Environment: Wastewater can have a damaging effect on the environment if it is not properly treated or disposed of. Untreated wastewater can pollute drinking water sources and contaminate soil, which can lead to water-borne diseases and the destruction of natural habitats. Wastewater can also cause algal blooms and oxygen depletion in water bodies, which can kill off fish and other aquatic life.
Social: Wastewater can have a significant impact on communities. Poorly treated or disposed wastewater can cause an increase in health risks to local residents. If wastewater is not managed properly, it can create an unpleasant living environment due to odor and the presence of vermin. Furthermore, wastewater has an adverse impact on the local economy, as it can contaminate agricultural land and decrease crop yields.

Precautionary measurements are taken to avoid wastewater-related issues

Precautionary measures are taken because untreated wastewater can cause a variety of negative environmental and health impacts.

To prevent these issues, precautionary measures are taken to ensure that wastewater is collected and disposed of properly. The collection of wastewater is usually done through sewer systems, septic tanks, or catchment basins. These systems allow for the safe collection and transport of wastewater to a treatment facility to remove pollutants and contaminants. Then water is released back into the environment.

Disposal of wastewater is also important in avoiding wastewater-related issues. Depending on the type of wastewater and the level of treatment it has undergone, it can be disposed of in various ways. Treated wastewater may be discharged into a local waterway, sprayed onto land, or recycled for use in industrial processes.

Wastewater collection

Wastewater collection systems typically include a network of pipes, manholes, and other structures such as pumping stations, treatment plants, and storage tanks. The collection systems are responsible for transporting wastewater from residences and businesses to a central drainage system.

Wastewater specific treatment

STP

A sewage treatment plant is a facility where wastewater is processed to remove pollutants and produce a treated effluent that is safe to return to the environment. Treatment processes may include physical, chemical, and biological processes to remove suspended solids, nutrients, and other pollutants. The treated effluent is typically discharged to a receiving water body such as a river, lake, or ocean.

Primary, Secondary, and Tertiary treatment process in STP:

Primary Treatment

It involves the physical removal of solids from wastewater. This is typically accomplished by screening, grit removal, and primary sedimentation. This is usually done by passing wastewater through large screens or grit channels to remove large debris, such as plastic, sticks, and rags. The wastewater is then pumped through a settling tank, which allows suspended solids to settle to the bottom and the clarified water to flow out of the tank. The settled sludge is usually sent to a secondary treatment process, such as anaerobic digestion or activated sludge. Primary treatment involves the addition of a coagulant and aims at removing grits, coarse solids, oil, and grease if any are present.

Secondary Treatment

This process uses bacteria and other microorganisms to break down organic matter from wastewater, such as food waste, soaps, and detergents, and convert it into a form to be released into the environment. The process usually involves aeration and clarification, using tanks, basins, and biological filters.

Membrane bioreactors (MBRs): Another wastewater treatment option is MBRs. These systems use membranes to separate suspended particles from the wastewater and then allow aerobic or anaerobic bacteria to break down the organic material. The end result is a stabilized effluent that meets environmental standards for safe discharge.

Sequential Batch Reactor (SBR): The SBR cycle is composed of several steps: fill, react, settle, decant, and idle. During the reaction stage, the wastewater is aerated and circulated to mix with the microbial population, allowing it to break off the organic matter. In the settling stage, the mixture is settled, allowing lighter biomass and organic matter to rise to the surface and be removed. In the idle phase, the tank is allowed to sit without any aeration or mixing, allowing the biomass to settle and the organisms to rest.

Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor (MBBR): MBBR is a type of wastewater treatment system that uses suspended carriers to provide a large surface area for the attached growth of biofilms. The carriers used in MBBRs provide a large surface area for biofilm growth, which helps to reduce the biomass size required for effective treatment.

Fluidized Bed Bioreactors (FBBR): FBBR is a type of secondary treatment for the removal of organic pollutants from wastewater. This allows microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi, to colonize the particles and break down the organic pollutants. It is used in conjunction with primary treatment processes to achieve the highest level of pollutant removal possible.

Tertiary Treatment

The tertiary or chemical treatment process of sewage treatment plants typically involves the addition of chemicals such as calcium oxide, sodium hydroxide, and sodium carbonate to the wastewater. This process helps to break down organic matter and remove suspended solids and other contaminants. The process also helps to balance the pH of the water, reduce odors (Activated charcoal), and reduce the level of disease-causing organisms.

Activated charcoal is a carbon filtration that works to remove odor and color by adsorbing and trapping contaminants on the surface of its tiny pores. Activated carbon needs replacement as its capacity to work reduces gradually.

Chlorination: The process involves the addition of chlorine or chlorine-based compounds to the water to kill bacteria and other disease-causing microorganisms. The chlorine kills any disease-causing organisms, which helps to reduce the risk of water-borne diseases.

Ozonation is a form of the advanced oxidation process that produces extremely reactive oxygen species. Ozone is very reactive and readily oxidizes microorganisms, effectively killing them. Ozone oxidizes the cell wall, membrane, and internal components of microorganisms, damaging their structure and function. Ozone also disrupts the microorganism`s metabolic pathways, leading to cell death.

UV treatment – UV water disinfection technique disinfects by penetrating microorganisms and destroying their DNA. Chlorine and other disinfectants can produce toxic disinfection byproducts (THMs or Halo-acetic acids) as well as the dangers that come with their presence on site. Because UV light disinfection is a chemical-free method, it effectively eliminates any concerns about these byproducts.

The important water discharge parameters in STP are biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), total suspended solids (TSS), total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP), and fecal coliform bacteria.

ETP

An effluent treatment plant (ETP) is a facility used to treat wastewater that is produced by industries and other sources. The treated wastewater (or effluent) is then released into the environment, usually a nearby river, lake, or ocean. ETP reduces the number of pollutants in the wastewater to the levels required by national and local environmental regulations.

In comparison with STP, ETP focuses more on reducing the number of chemical pollutants present in wastewater during its secondary treatment process.

Primary, Secondary, and Tertiary treatment process in ETP:

Primary Treatment

The primary treatment process in ETP typically involves the removal of suspended solids, oils, and other physical contaminants from wastewater. Wastewater is Treated by physical processes such as sedimentation, flocculation, clarification, and filtration.

Secondary Treatment

In secondary treatment, industrial effluent processes are modified as per the content and level of certain chemical pollutants. Following some of the industrial wastewater treatment processes will help to understand this concept better.

Oil and petroleum industry:

A vast amount of wastewater is generated from the extraction, refining, and transportation of petroleum products. This contains a variety of contaminants, including oil, grease, heavy metals, and other hazardous substances or pollutants. It helps to reduce the concentration of pollutants and contaminants in the effluent to a level that is safe for discharge into the environment. This is achieved through coagulation, flocculation, and biological treatment. The coagulation/flocculation process involves the addition of a coagulant, such as aluminum hydroxide chloride or aluminum sulfate, to the wastewater to remove suspended solids.

The biological treatment process utilizes microorganisms to break down organic material in the wastewater and reduce the concentration of pollutants. Finally, the N:P ratio is an important parameter for the treatment of oily wastewater by using oil-degrading bacteria. By using these techniques, secondary treatment can effectively reduce the contamination level of effluent and make it suitable for discharge into water bodies.

Example: Microorganisms to remove oil contaminants such as Bacteria, Pseudomonas aeruginosa: P. aeruginosa bacteria are able to break down oil and petroleum products due to their ability to produce enzymes that are specific to hydrocarbons. Pseudomonas bacteria are usually introduced into wastewater as slurry. This slurry is made up of a combination of Pseudomonas bacteria, nutrients, and a carbon source. The carbon source is important because it provides the bacteria with the energy they need to break down the oil and petroleum-based pollutants.

Other common microorganisms used in the oil and petroleum industry for wastewater treatment include bacteria such as Acinetobacter, and Bacillus, and fungi such as Aspergillus and Trichoderma.

Textile industry (Dyes and paints, colorants,):

The main purpose of secondary treatment is to provide BOD removal beyond what is achievable by simple sedimentation. It also removes appreciable amounts of oil and phenol. The dissolved and colloidal organic compounds and color present in wastewater are removed or reduced to stabilize the organic matter. Textile processing effluents are amenable to biological treatments.

Textile waste also contains significant quantities of non-biodegradable chemical polymers. For non-biodegradable pollutants, filtration technologies are utilized in the textile industry to clean wastewater. Traditional membrane processes in textile wastewater treatment include the use of ultrafiltration (UF), nanofiltration (NF), and reverse osmosis (RO) membranes. The selection of membrane technologies for textile effluent relies on costs based on the balance between water flux and solute retention. RO also becomes less effective when osmotic pressure, is caused by high salt concentration in the feed wastewater. Becomes too high to obtain a reasonable transmembrane permeate flux without applying excess transmembrane hydraulic pressure.

The membrane filtration system typically consists of a series of membranes with differing pore sizes and compositions that are used to remove particles from the wastewater. The membranes are typically made from polymeric materials such as polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), polysulfone, or polypropylene.

Metallurgic, chemical, and Fertilizer industry:

This is usually done through the application of an activated sludge process, trickling filter, rotating biological contactors, and oxidation ponds. The activated sludge process is used to remove organic pollutants from wastewater by using a variety of microorganisms. Trickling filters use a bed of media on which microorganisms grow to degrade the organic pollutants. Rotating biological contactors use a series of rotating plastic disks on which microorganisms grow and degrade organic pollutants. Finally, oxidation ponds are used to provide long-term biological treatment.

Tertiary Treatment

The tertiary treatment or biological treatment process in an ETP is designed to remove organic and inorganic pollutants from wastewater. This process is typically used in applications where the effluent needs to be treated to a high level of purity. The water is then treated with chlorine, ultraviolet light, or ozone to kill any remaining bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens before it is released into the environment. Primary and secondary treatment typically gets wastewater only clean enough to discharge safely into the environment. Tertiary treatment can achieve levels of water purification that make the water safe for reuse in water-intensive processes or even as drinking water.

Tertiary wastewater treatment often works by using a combination of physical and chemical processes to remove harmful microbiological contaminants. The process usually involves filtration followed by additional disinfecting treatment. In some cases, tertiary treatment may also use other specialized treatments like lagoon storage, biological nutrient removal, and nitrogen and phosphorus removal.

Final water disposal activities:

All water either from STP or ETP is finally safely disposed into the environment or reused depending upon the quality of wastewater as follows.

Filters: Tertiary filtration components can contain a few different materials. Sand and activated carbon filters are common, and filters can also contain fine woven cloth. The filters come in a few types, including bag filters, drum filters, and disc filters. Backwash cleans the media components to ensure their continual functioning.

Disinfecting: The process of tertiary disinfection may take a few different forms. Chlorine is one of the most commonly used disinfectants in wastewater treatment. Ultraviolet light is a common disinfectant in tertiary treatment. Ozone is highly reactive and can destroy most microorganisms it comes into contact with.

Discharge: Once the wastewater has undergone tertiary treatment, it is ready for discharge back into the environment. Many municipalities have specific requirements for the discharge of treated water. Tertiary treatment should be sufficient to meet those standards, keep the environment clean and preserve human health, experts say.

Reuse: Many treatment plants use tertiary treatment specifically to make the water safe for human ingestion. Water that has received tertiary treatment is also suitable for numerous operations that require clean water. These include industrial and manufacturing processes, oil and gas extraction and refining, utilities cooling, and agricultural practices like irrigation.

Wastewater Treatment

Wastewater Management and Its Important Components

December 23, 2022December 23, 2022
by Nikita Chauhan

The drainage systems and wastewater collection are important components of proper collection and disposal of the city’s infrastructure. They are responsible for maintaining a safe and healthy environment by preventing the spread of diseases and pollutants. The drainage systems and wastewater collection are most often divided into two main components. The collection system includes sewers and pipes, and the treatment system, which includes wastewater treatment plants. The drainage system collects rainwater runoff and sewage from homes, businesses, and other sources. Then transports the collected wastewater to a treatment plant, where it is treated, cleaned, and released back into the environment.

Drainage System:

The drainage system is a network of pipes, drains and other structures used to collect and remove surplus water and waste from buildings, roads, and other areas. It is an integral part of modern life, allowing for the removal of rainwater, sewage, and other waste materials.

The drainage system is typically composed of two components. A surface drainage system collects and disposes of rainwater and surface runoff. A subsurface drainage system collects and removes waste water from buildings.

Surface drainage systems are designed to collect and convey excess water away from roads, buildings, and other areas. They usually consist of a series of underground pipes and channels that collect runoff from rooftops, driveways, and other surfaces. The collected water is then directed to a storm sewer, which carries it away from the area. In some cases, the water is directed to a nearby water body or a natural wetland.

Subsurface drainage systems are designed to collect and remove wastewater from buildings. These systems are typically comprised of a series of pipes and drains that collect wastewater from plumbing fixtures, such as toilets and sinks. It is then directed to a septic tank or a public sewer system, where it is treated before being discharged into a nearby water body.

Wastewater Collection:

Wastewater collection systems typically include a network of pipes, manholes, and other structures such as pumping stations, treatment plants, and storage tanks. The pipes are usually constructed from PVC, concrete, or iron and they come in a variety of sizes and shapes to accommodate different types of wastewater. The manholes are used to allow access to the pipes for cleaning and maintenance, and they are usually equipped with safety equipment such as gas detectors and airflow monitors.

Wastewater collection systems are responsible for transporting wastewater from residences and businesses to a central drainage system. In most cases, wastewater is collected through a network of underground pipes that lead to a sewage treatment facility. The drainage system works in conjunction with the wastewater collection system by receiving wastewater from the collection system and then distributing it to the treatment facility. The drainage system removes excess water from the surrounding area and provides a safe and efficient disposal of wastewater.

Wastewater Collection Categories:

Wastewater collection systems can be divided into two categories: sanitary sewers and combined sewers. Sanitary sewers are wastewater systems that collect it from homes and businesses and transport it to a wastewater treatment plant, while combined sewers collect both stormwater and wastewater and transport them to a wastewater treatment plant. The drainage flow rate is the amount of water that is discharged from a drainage system over a given period of time. This rate is usually expressed in cubic feet per second (CFS). The drainage flow rate can be affected by factors such as the size of the drainage system, the slope of the terrain, the amount of rainfall or snowmelt, and any obstructions in the flow.

The volume of water collected in wastewater treatment plants (WTPs) is determined by the size of the plant and its capacity. Normally, the size and type of treatment process used will determine the volume of water that can be processed in a given period of time. The capacity of WTPs can range from 1.9 million liters per day to over 80 million liters per day. Water collected by WTPs depends on the amount of wastewater generated by the community and precipitation in the area.

Treatment and Discharge:

Pumping stations are used to move wastewater from low-lying areas to higher points where it can be more easily transported. Treatment plants used to clean and treat wastewater involves a combination of physical, chemical, and biological processes.

Physical processes involve the removal of large suspended solids, such as sand, gravel, and other debris. This is usually done through sedimentation, filtration, or centrifugation. Chemical processes involve the addition of chemicals, such as chlorine or alum, to break down organic matter and other pollutants. Biological processes involve the use of microorganisms, such as bacteria, to break down organic matter in wastewater.

The treated wastewater is then discharged into a receiving water body, such as a river, lake, or ocean.

Tabulation of general wastewater parameters

By tabulating general wastewater parameters, Population Control Board is able to understand the impact of wastewater on the environment. This information can then be used to develop measures to reduce the negative impacts of wastewater on the environment.

Wastewater management systems must be designed and operated to ensure that they adequately collect, and treat the wastewater and prevent environmental contamination.

Wastewater management systems should also be designed to prevent flooding and maintain an acceptable level of water quality. This may include the installation of pumps, detention basins, and other structures to reduce the effects of flooding. It may also include the use of stormwater management systems to prevent soil erosion and runoff of polluted wastewater.

In nature, wastewater treatment occurs in natural ponds, wetlands covered with mangroves, and heavy plantation and water lagoons.

Similarly, when these natural phenomena are applied for wastewater treatment by artificial means, both natural, as well as artificial resources are utilized. At the beginning of the process, wastewater is allowed to stabilize and remove suspended solids particles by aggregation, flocculation, and sedimentation in waste stabilization ponds. Then the water slowly flows to artificial wetlands where the plantation of diverse phytoremediation plants sequesters many pollutants and clears water to the maximum extent by phytoremediation process. Furthermore, in natural processes, the wastewater from wetlands enters the natural water bodies and water streams.

Constructed wetlands:

Constructed wetlands are artificial wetlands that are specifically designed to treat wastewater. They consist of a shallow body of water with a bed of gravel or sand and vegetation planted in them. As wastewater is pumped into the wetland, it flows slowly through the gravel or sand and is filtered by the plants, soil, and microorganisms. The microorganisms break down organic matter and suspended solids, while the plants and soil filter out pollutants and heavy metals.

Water Lagoons:

Lagoons are made up of a series of interconnected ponds, which are designed to capture, store, and treat wastewater. Each lagoon is filled with wastewater that is circulated and aerated, allowing beneficial bacteria and enzymes to break down harmful contaminants. This process helps to reduce the amount of organic matter, toxins, and other pollutants in the water, making it safe for reuse or discharge. As the water moves through the lagoons, suspended solids settle to the bottom, providing a nutrient-rich environment for beneficial bacteria and other organisms to thrive. The bacteria and other organisms help to further break down the contaminants and create a clean, safe effluent.

Importance of Wastewater management

Conservation of Resources: It helps to conserve valuable resources, such as energy and water, by recycling.
Preservation of Human Health: Wastewater management reduces the risk of water-borne diseases and helps in preserving public health.
Reduced Pollution: It helps to reduce the pollutant level in water sources and helps to protect aquatic ecosystems and wildlife.
Improved Water Quality: Water quality in rivers and lakes can be improved and making them safer for human use.
Reduced Contamination: It helps to reduce contamination of drinking water sources and ensure that they are safe for human consumption.
Economic Benefits: Proper wastewater management can help to reduce the costs of water treatment and disposal, providing economic benefits.

Conclusion:

Wastewater management is a complex process to manage. The infrastructure of a drainage system in wastewater management is a basic requirement. Improper drainage and wastewater management lead to wastewater-related issues in society that affects the quality of life. Poorly designed drainage systems can lead to poor sanitation, water pollution, and various serious water-related health hazards. Impotent drainage system flooding during rainy seasons may occur due to water logging which causes life and economic losses. Proper management is essential to avoid above mentioned damages. By investing in an efficient infrastructure and technology, wastewater can be well managed and we can enjoy a hygienic life.

Waste Management

Innovative Solutions and Technological Interventions in Waste Management

December 9, 2022December 10, 2022
by Nikita Chauhan

Considering the current state of waste management in the world, unimaginable situations are apparent. These include massive amounts of waste generation lack of waste dumping sites, and undermanagement of waste causing environmental pollution and damaging the ecosystem. Therefore, in recent years many countries have focused on waste management innovation. The Innovation in this field is focused on finding ways to reduce, reuse, recycle waste, and develop new disposal methods.

One of the most important innovations in waste management is the introduction of waste sorting and segregation. By separating the waste into categories, it can be recycled or disposed of in a more efficient manner. This reduces the amount of waste sent to landfills and reduces the environmental impact of waste.

Innovation in waste management techniques is a continuous process due to emerging novel waste categories. Recently, the development of new technologies, such as 3D printing has been used to create new items from waste materials. This helps to reduce the amount of waste going to landfills and encourages manufacturers to use recycled materials in their production processes.

Overall, innovation in waste management is helping to reduce the environmental impact of waste and make the world a cleaner and healthier place.

Ways of Waste Management:

1. Reduce: Reducing the amount of waste produced is the first step in waste management. This involves making changes to the way people consume products, such as buying items with less packaging, using reusable items instead of disposable ones, and buying in bulk.

2. Reuse: Reusing items is a great way to reduce waste. Items that can be reused include plastic bags, water bottles, and food containers.

3. Recycling: Recycling is a process of collecting and sorting materials, such as paper, plastic, and metal, to be reused. Recycling helps reduce the amount of waste that needs to be disposed of and can also help conserve natural resources.

4. Waste Collection and Transportation: Waste collection and transportation is the process of collecting and transporting waste to designated areas where it can be properly disposed of. This process helps keep communities clean and free of waste.

These ways of waste management are to reduce the amount of waste produced and to ensure that waste is managed safely and responsibly. This also includes the prevention of pollution and the protection of human health and the environment. Waste management also helps to ensure that waste is disposed of in an environmentally sound manner, while also helping to reduce the costs associated with waste disposal.

The basis of these waste management concepts following some innovative, & futuristic solutions is being explored. Apart from this, already-known environmental solutions are implemented for the management of biodegradable waste and some of the potential biological solutions are discussed in this context.

A. Innovative Solutions:

Waste-to-Energy Technology:

Waste-to-energy (WTE) technology is a process of converting non-recyclable waste into usable energy. This process is often done by burning the waste in an incinerator. The resulting energy can then be used to generate electricity and heat.

Waste-to-energy technology is a popular solution for municipal solid waste, but can also be applied to agricultural and industrial waste.

Bioenergy from methane and biogas is produced from the anaerobic digestion of biodegradable waste. Anaerobic digestion is a process by which organic matter is broken down by bacteria in the absence of oxygen. During this process, biogas is produced. Biogas can be used directly as fuel in domestic applications or processed further to produce heat and electricity on a commercial scale. The benefits of using biogas and methane from the anaerobic digestion of biodegradable waste include the reduction of landfill waste, the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, and the production of renewable energy. Additionally, the process of anaerobic digestion can be used to produce other valuable products, such as nutrient-rich compost, which can be used to improve the fertility of agricultural land.

Smart Waste Bins:

Smart waste bins are an innovative tool in waste management that is designed to make waste collection and disposal more efficient and cost-effective. It uses sensors, wireless networks, and software to monitor and manage waste levels in real time. The data collected can be used to improve waste collection routes, identify problem areas, and help identify potential areas for improvement in the waste disposal process.

Smart bins can help reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills by alerting waste collectors when the bin is full and needs to be emptied. This can help to reduce the amount of waste that goes to landfills and provide a more efficient and cost-effective waste disposal system.

This also helps to reduce carbon emissions into the atmosphere by changing the fate of waste. Additionally, smart waste bins can be used to collect recyclable materials, making it easier for them to be sorted and recycled.

Overall, smart waste bins are an innovative tool in waste management that can help reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills, provide data to waste management companies and local governments to develop better waste management policies and strategies and help to reduce the environmental impact of waste.

Plasma Gasification:

Plasma Gasification is a cutting-edge innovation in waste management that uses high temperatures and electrical energy to convert organic waste into a gaseous fuel. This gaseous fuel can then be used for energy production, making it an efficient and sustainable way of managing the world’s waste.

Plasma Gasification works by vaporizing organic waste into its base elements. These elements are then converted into syngas, a mixture of hydrogen and carbon monoxide. The syngas can then be used to generate electricity, produce synthetic fuels, and create other useful materials. In addition, the process produces a solid residue, which can be used as an alternative fuel source or recycled back into the environment.

Plasma Gasification is an extremely efficient way to manage waste. This is because it has the ability to convert almost any kind of organic waste into a usable form of energy. This makes it a much more efficient way of managing organic waste than traditional methods such as burning or landfilling. In addition, the process produces far fewer emissions than burning organic waste, making it a much more environmentally friendly option.

Plasma Gasification is already being used in some parts of the world and is expected to become more common as the technology continues to develop. This is a great innovation that provides a sustainable and efficient way of managing waste, and it is likely to become a major part of the global waste management landscape in the future.

Pneumatic Waste Collection:

Pneumatic waste collection is an innovative and efficient way to manage waste. It is an automated system that uses a network of pipes to transport waste from one location to another, providing a more efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly solution. This system is used in both commercial and residential buildings and is becoming increasingly popular due to its many advantages.

The main advantage of pneumatic waste collection is its convenience. Waste products are collected in containers which are then loaded onto a conveyor belt or other conveyance system. This belt or other conveyance system then transports the waste to a centralized collection point. From there, it is sorted before being transported to a waste-processing facility. This automated process eliminates the need for manual labour and reduces the risks associated with manual waste collection. It also reduces the amount of time and resources needed for waste collection, which in turn reduces costs for businesses and households.

Another advantage of pneumatic waste collection is its environmental benefits. By eliminating manual labour, it reduces the number of resources used in waste management, such as fuel and energy. It also reduces the amount of pollution from emissions from vehicles used for waste collection. Additionally, it allows for better waste segregation, meaning that recyclable materials are more easily separated from non-recyclable materials. This results in less waste going to landfills, resulting in a more eco-friendly waste management solution.

Overall, pneumatic waste collection is a highly efficient and cost-effective solution for waste management. It eliminates the need for manual labour, reduces environmental impacts and provides a more organized and efficient way to manage waste. It is an innovation that is quickly gaining popularity and is likely to become even more important in the future.

Fleet Management System:

Fleet management systems are playing an increasingly important role in the innovation of waste management. By providing real-time access to data about fleet vehicles, fleet management systems allow for more efficient operation of waste collection and disposal services. This data can be used to monitor and optimize routes, predict maintenance needs, and ensure fuel efficiency.

Advanced analytics capabilities have enabled fleet managers to gain insights into the performance of their fleets, helping them identify areas for improvement and cost savings. They can also use these insights to develop new strategies for managing waste disposal, such as reducing the number of vehicles used for collection or introducing more efficient collection methods.

Fleet management systems also allow for remote monitoring of waste collection and disposal services, allowing managers to track and monitor waste collection and disposal activities in real time. This data can be used to quickly identify problems and take corrective action.

Overall, fleet management systems are playing a key role in the innovation of waste management. By providing access to real-time data and advanced analytics capabilities, fleet managers are able to optimize waste collection and disposal operations, improve safety, and reduce costs.

AI Waste Sorting:

Al waste sorting innovation is a revolutionary new approach to waste management that has been developed by the Al-Waste Group. The group is dedicated to finding ways to reduce the amount of waste that is sent to landfills, incinerators, and other disposal methods. Al-Waste’s sorting innovation is based on a combination of mechanical and optical sorting methods, which can separate and sort items of waste into different categories.

The sorting process begins by using a machine that sorts the waste into categories such as plastic, paper, glass, and metal. The machine then uses a series of optical scanners to identify and separate the different materials. This process is repeated several times to remove items that are too small to be sorted, and then the sorted items are further separated by weight and size. Finally, the materials are further sorted into various waste streams such as compost, recyclable, and hazardous materials.

Al-Waste’s sorting innovation is a great example of how innovative thinking can lead to more sustainable waste management solutions. By using the latest technologies and techniques, Al-Waste is helping to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills, while also increasing the number of materials that can be recycled and reused. This is a great way to reduce the environmental impact of waste management while also helping to create a more sustainable future.

Bioremediation of waste dumping site to remove pollutants (Toxic and Heavy metals) by biomining and bioleaching

Bioremediation of waste dumping sites is a process used to reduce pollutants from contaminated areas and to restore them to a safe and usable condition. Biomining and bioleaching are technologies used in the bioremediation of waste dumping sites to remove heavy metals, such as lead, arsenic, and mercury, from these areas.

Biomining is a process that uses microorganisms (bacteria) to extract minerals of heavy metals from ore deposits. In this process, microbial cells (Prokaryotes and fungi) are used to break down the minerals, and also form complexes with metal ions by secreting chelating substances to chelate them. These metal microorganism complexes are then extracted from the ore through a process of leaching. This technology is used to extract heavy metals from waste dumping sites, which are then reused as resources.

Bioleaching is another bioremediation process that uses certain species of microorganisms to oxidize heavy metals. Microorganisms are then released and collected in a solution leading to the removal of the pollutant from the contaminated site. This solution can then be treated to remove the heavy metals for recycling purposes or safe disposal.

These two technologies are effective in removing heavy metals from waste dumping sites and restoring them to a safe and usable condition. They are also relatively inexpensive, making them an attractive option for waste management and restoring polluted land.

B. Other Modern Technologies:

One of the most innovative novel technologies in waste management is the use of intelligent monitoring technology. This technology is used to detect, track, and analyse the sources of waste and how it is being managed. It utilizes smart sensors and artificial intelligence algorithms to detect and track the sources of waste, analyse its composition, and identify the best methods for managing it. This technology can be used to help cities and businesses better manage their waste.

Another novel technology in waste management is the use of robotic waste collectors. These robots are equipped with sensors and cameras to detect and collect waste from areas that are hard to reach. They utilize GPS technology to accurately track and collect waste and can be programmed to perform tasks autonomously. This technology has the potential to reduce the amount of human labour needed for waste collection, thereby improving the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of waste management operations.

Finally, there is the use of cloud-based waste management technology. This technology allows businesses and cities to efficiently manage their waste using a cloud-based platform. It enables them to track and monitor waste streams, set up alerts for when waste needs to be collected, and use predictive analytics to forecast future waste needs. This technology can help businesses and cities reduce their waste generation and save money.

C. Technological interventions in Biological and biochemical Solutions:

Localized Composting Models:

For domestic organic waste management, modern tools are developed to offer a localized solution. This helps to convert and reduce organic waste produced in houses and small businesses. Composting is a process of breaking down organic kitchen waste, food, vegetables left over, and yard waste, into nutrient-rich soil. Composting can reduce the amount of waste that needs to be disposed of as well as provide fertilizer for plants. Furthermore, to improve compost quality, techniques like vermicomposting are also followed.

Anaerobic Digestion (AD) of Environment Polluting Biowaste:

Biowaste containing pathogenic bacteria if dumped openly in the environment can pollute waterbodies and spreads diseases. To avoid this proper disposal of biological waste is very much essential. Anaerobic digestion is a process of breaking down organic waste in the absence of oxygen. This process produces biogas, which can be used to generate electricity and heat. Faecal waste, farm animal excreta, and water treatment plant (STP/ETP) sludge are anaerobically digested to produce energy and nutrient-rich manure. Government authorities help rural communities to implement basic anaerobic digestion technologies by providing funds and subsidising the construction cost. This is to promote the application of available technology for hazardous waste management and also to promote rural development.

Agricultural waste for bioenergy generation:

Bioenergy generation technology is a viable option for the conversion of agricultural waste into energy. Second-generation (2G) biofuels majorly focused on the production of ethanol as a liquid fuel from agricultural residues. The acid, alkali or enzyme-based digestion of cellulosic agricultural residue is performed to produce fermentable sugar from complex lignocellulosic biomass. In the subsequent fermentation step, the produced sugar broth is utilized for the production of ethanol as a transportation fuel. This innovative solution will reduce the great issue related to agricultural waste otherwise which is burned in the fields promoting more pollution.

As explained earlier anaerobic digestion is also performed with various types of easily digestible agricultural waste to produce methane-rich biogas. This biogas can be used to generate electricity or heat, as well as used as a transportation fuel.

Liquid Waste:

Scrubbing of Environmental Pollutants from the Industrial Effluent and Stack Gases:

These processes use a combination of filtration and scrubbing technology to reduce harmful gases and liquids from stack and effluents respectively. Pollutants are collected from the exhaust by passing it through a filter material, such as an activated carbon filter, which captures the pollutant particles. The captured pollutants are then removed from the filter material through a scrubbing process, which involves the use of a liquid or gas scrubbing solution.

The scrubbing solution is typically a combination of water and a chemical that reacts with the pollutants to neutralize them. Activated carbon filters are also used to reduce the emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The captured pollutants are then further processed in a reaction tank where they are converted into harmless compounds.

In biological methods, microorganisms are used to sequester poisonous gases and Heavy metal ions from air and water respectively. These organisms utilize a variety of chemicals as their nutrients and can be embedded into filter material for treatment. These bacteria embedded into filter material start utilizing pollutants after placing the filters in liquid waste. The filter material acts as a substrate, providing microbes with the necessary nutrients and environment to grow and thrive.

Use of Enzymes in Wastewater Treatment:

Enzymes are biological molecules that catalyse chemical reactions in living organisms. They are essential in all biochemical pathways and are used in a variety of industrial processes. They can be produced from a variety of microorganisms through industrial fermentation processes. In wastewater treatment, enzymes break down organic waste into smaller molecules that are easily removed in further treatment. Enzymes also remove oil and grease, as well as inorganic compounds such as heavy metals.

Ex. Proteases: Proteases break down proteins in sewage sludge to make it easier to handle and dispose of. Lipase breaks down lipids and fats in wastewater, which can reduce odours and help to improve water quality.

Phyto, Phyco, and Microbial Remediation:

Phytoremediation is the use of plants to remove pollutants from contaminated water. This process involves growing plants that are able to absorb pollutants from the water and contain them within their tissues.

Phycoremediation is the use of algae to remove pollutants from contaminated water. Algae can absorb and contain pollutants like heavy metals, organic compounds, and nutrients.

Microbial remediation is the use of microorganisms to degrade pollutants contained in water. Microorganisms can break down pollutants such as oil, pesticides, and solvents, making them less harmful and easier to manage.

These methods of liquid waste management are all effective in reducing the number of pollutants that enter the environment.

Green House Gases (GHGs) – CO₂ sequestration using Phycoremediation and Phytoremediation:

The most abundant GHGs Carbon dioxide (CO₂), is one of the most significant contributors to global warming. It has become crucial to find ways to reduce emissions and sequester the CO2 already present in the atmosphere. Direct Air Capture (DAC) by physical and chemical means to concentrate and store CO2 is one option. Where, captured CO2 can be stored in gaseous, liquid or solid form under the earth’s crust, and many other places.

Amongst the all-potential CO2 sequestration technologies environmental solutions are more economic and promising (for example Phycoremediation and Phytoremediation). These methods involve the use of plants, microorganisms, and algae to capture CO2 from the atmosphere. In the end, this absorbed CO2 is stored in the form of biomass. This biomass can then be used to produce biofuels and a variety of biocommodity products.

Conclusion and Future Prospects:

A variety of solutions are available for waste management and many innovation options are added with novel research every year. But the major constraints related to technology implementation always remain unresolved. In many cases, waste managing authorities fail to estimate the scale at which waste is generated. They also fail to determine the technology required to manage the waste.

Novel technological interventions are quite promising to resolve waste generation and its management issues. In the future improvement in waste management can be seen if timely adaptation and implementation of novel solutions are made. Furthermore, the exploration and execution of more environmental solutions in the waste management sector would lead to sustainable developments.

Waste Management

Understanding waste and its possible ways of management

December 2, 2022December 2, 2022
by Nikita Chauhan

Waste and Its Management

What is Waste?

Waste is any material that is discarded or left unused after its initial purpose has been served. It is a major problem in the world today, with large amounts of waste created by human activities. Waste can be found in many forms, including solid, liquid, and gaseous. It can be hazardous or non-hazardous and can come from a variety of sources, such as industrial processes, agriculture, and domestic activities. The improper disposal of waste can have serious environmental and health consequences. Solid waste can contaminate groundwater and soil, while liquid waste can pollute rivers and other bodies of water. In addition, some forms of waste can release toxic substances into the atmosphere, causing air pollution. Waste can also lead to the spread of disease, as some types of waste can be a breeding ground for bacteria and viruses.

The most effective way to address the issue of waste is to reduce, reuse, and recycle. Reducing waste means using less of the resources available and cutting down on the amount of waste produced. Reusing materials instead of buying new products can help reduce the amount of waste produced. Finally, recycling waste can help to reduce the amount of waste that needs to be disposed of, as materials can be processed and reused. Waste is an ever-growing problem that needs to be addressed urgently. By reducing, reusing, and recycling, we can all do our part to help reduce the amount of waste produced.

Classification of Waste

Classification Depending upon the Waste Types:

Solid Waste:

Solid waste is any type of waste material that is discarded after use and cannot be reused or recycled. This type of waste is usually composed of common items such as food scraps, packaging materials, paper and cardboard, and other items that are no longer needed. Solid waste is the most common form of waste and accounts for over two-thirds of all waste produced. Solid waste is a major threat to the environment, as it can contaminate soil and water, pollute the air, and create health risks.

Liquid Waste:

Liquid waste refers to waste materials in liquid forms, such as wastewater, sewage, and industrial effluents. this type of waste can come from a variety of sources, including homes, businesses, and industries. It is generally composed of a mixture of organic and inorganic substances, including oils, grease, detergents, suspended solids, and other contaminants. Liquid waste is considered hazardous when it contains any type of pollutant that can be harmful to humans, animals, and the environment.

Classification Depending upon the Source:

Industrial waste is generated by commercial and industrial processes, such as manufacturing, mining, and energy production.

Municipal waste is generated by households and businesses, including packaging, food waste, and other household items.

Construction and demolition waste is generated from the construction and demolition of buildings and other structures.

Agricultural waste is generated during agricultural practices of growing, harvesting, and recovering food grains. This waste is mostly organic and manageable at the source of its production in many conventional ways.

Depending upon its Management:

Recyclable waste is any material that can be reused or repurposed for another purpose.

Compostable waste is any material that can be broken down into organic matter and used as fertilizer or soil conditioner.

Landfill waste is any material that cannot be recycled or composted and must be disposed of in a landfill.

Classification by the Categories:

Furthermore, all types of waste can be divided into two main categories: hazardous and non-hazardous.

Hazardous waste is any material that is toxic, flammable, corrosive, radioactive, or otherwise dangerous to human health or the environment. Examples of hazardous waste include industrial chemicals, medical waste, electronic waste, etc.

Non-hazardous waste is any material that is not hazardous and poses no risk to human health or the environment. Examples of non-hazardous waste include paper and cardboard, food waste, yard waste, etc.

Waste Management

Waste management is the collection, transport, processing, recycling, or disposal of waste materials, in an effort to reduce their impact on human health and the environment. This includes the management of hazardous or toxic substances, as well as the management of non-hazardous solid and liquid materials. There are different methods and techniques used in waste management, depending on the type of waste and the location where it is generated. For example, in urban areas, municipal waste management programs may involve curbside collection, waste disposal facilities, and recycling centers.

In industrial areas, waste management may involve the use of special containers, incineration, and other types of waste treatment. Waste management in a rural area may involve the use of composting, landfills, and other methods of disposal. In order to reduce the amount of waste that is generated, it is important to develop strategies for reducing, reusing, and recycling materials. This includes encouraging the use of durable goods that can be reused, such as furniture and appliances, and encouraging people to purchase items that are made from recycled materials. It is also important to educate the public about the importance of proper waste disposal, such as avoiding the disposal of hazardous materials and properly disposing of non-hazardous materials.

Finally, it is important to develop and implement effective waste management systems that are tailored to the specific needs of the locality. This may include the development of regulations and laws that govern the disposal of waste, as well as the enforcement of these laws. It is also important to ensure that waste management practices are properly monitored and enforced, in order to ensure that they are effective and safe.

Solid Waste Management:

Solid waste management is the collection, transportation, processing, and disposal of solid waste materials. It is essential to ensure proper waste management to reduce health risks, conserve resources, and protect the environment. The most common methods of solid waste management include recycling, composting, incineration, and landfilling. Each of these methods has its own benefits and drawbacks. Recycling involves reprocessing and reusing discarded materials while composting is the process of breaking down organic materials into a soil-like material. Incineration is a method of burning waste materials to reduce their volume while landfilling involves burying the materials in a designated area.

In addition to these methods, there are several other strategies for managing solid waste. These include source reduction, reuse, and energy recovery. Source reduction involves reducing the amount of waste produced in the first place, while reuse involves finding new uses for existing materials. Energy recovery involves burning waste to create energy. Regardless of the strategy used, it is important to ensure proper solid waste management. This includes establishing regulations and policies that promote proper waste management, as well as educating the public on the importance of waste reduction and recycling. Proper waste management can help to reduce air and water pollution, conserve resources, and reduce the amount of landfill waste. Additionally, proper disposal of solid waste is essential to ensure that it does not end up in landfills or waterways.

Liquid Waste Management:

The management of liquid waste is important in order to protect public health and the environment. Liquid waste must be properly collected, treated, and disposed of in order to reduce potential risks to human health and the environment. Treatment options vary depending on the type and composition of the liquid waste. Common methods of treatment include physical, chemical, and biological processes. The disposal of liquid waste is regulated by local and state laws, which specify the types of waste that must be disposed of in a certain manner and the methods that must be used to do so. In most cases, liquid waste must be disposed of in accordance with federal and state regulations and must be managed in a manner that does not pollute the environment or pose a threat to public health.

Impact of hazardous waste:

The most immediate effect of hazardous waste is the contamination of land, air, and water. Hazardous waste can contain a variety of harmful chemicals that can be released into the environment and can cause a wide range of health problems. Long-term exposure to hazardous waste can lead to cancer, birth defects, and other serious health problems. Hazardous waste can also contaminate nearby groundwater and surface water, creating a risk of contamination for drinking water sources. This can lead to a host of health problems, such as poisoning, gastrointestinal and respiratory illnesses, and even death.

The presence of hazardous waste can also impact the local ecology. It can contaminate soil, killing off beneficial organisms and disrupting the natural balance of the ecosystem. Hazardous waste can leach into rivers and streams, killing off fish and other aquatic life. Additionally, improper handling of hazardous waste can lead to accidental spills, which can have a devastating effect on the environment. Spills can contaminate the soil, water, and air, leading to long-term damage. Overall, hazardous waste can have a devastating effect on human health and the environment. It is important to take steps to ensure that hazardous waste is properly managed and disposed of in order to minimize its potential impacts.

How to Manage Hazardous waste:

Identify Hazards: Identify the type of hazardous waste you are dealing with and its associated risks. This information should be documented and kept on file.

Contain and Label: Contain the hazardous waste in a secure area and use appropriate labels. The labels should specify the type of waste, the quantity, and any safety precautions.

Develop a Management Plan: Develop a plan for the safe storage, transport, and disposal of hazardous waste. Make sure the plan is in compliance with any applicable regulations.

Monitor and Document: Monitor the hazardous waste to ensure it is stored safely and that it is not released into the environment. Document any changes in the hazardous waste and its storage.

Train Employees: Train all employees on the safe handling and disposal of hazardous waste. Make sure they are aware of any safety precautions and regulations.

Dispose of Properly: Dispose of hazardous waste in a way that is safe and compliant with all regulations. This could include recycling, incineration, or other means.

Audit and Review: Perform regular audits and reviews to ensure the hazardous waste is being managed properly. Document any changes or improvements that need to be implemented.

Impact of Non-Hazardous Waste:

Non-hazardous waste, such as plastics, can have a devastating effect on the environment. Plastic consumption has skyrocketed over the past few decades and continues to be a major contributor to pollution. One of the main ways that non-hazardous waste is bad for the environment is through the release of toxins and chemicals. When plastic is not disposed of properly, it can leach toxins into the environment. This can cause soil contamination, air pollution, and water contamination, leading to serious health and environmental issues. Non-hazardous waste can also be bad for the environment when it is not properly recycled or disposed of. When plastic waste is not recycled, it often ends up in landfills or in the ocean, where it can take hundreds of years to decompose. This can cause serious damage to the surrounding environment, leading to water and air pollution, as well as the release of dangerous toxins.

Non-hazardous waste also contributes to global warming. As plastic breaks down, it releases greenhouse gases, which can contribute to the warming of the planet. It can also cause significant damage to local wildlife, as animals can become trapped in the plastic or ingest it, leading to serious health issues. Overall, non-hazardous waste can lead to serious environmental damage if it is not disposed of properly. It can cause air and water pollution, contribute to global warming, and lead to serious health issues for animals and humans alike. To help protect the environment, it is important to make sure that non-hazardous waste is properly recycled or disposed of.

How to manage Non- hazardous Waste:

Reuse: Reuse of non-hazardous waste should be encouraged whenever possible. Items such as paper, cardboard, plastic, aluminum, glass, and other materials can be recycled or reused in new products.

Reduce: Minimizing the amount of non-hazardous waste generated is one of the best strategies for managing it. This can be done by reducing the number of products purchased, reusing items, and avoiding single-use items.

Recycle: Recycling non-hazardous waste is one of the best ways to manage it. Recycling not only helps reduce waste but also conserves resources and energy.

Compost: Composting non-hazardous waste helps create a nutrient-rich soil amendment that can be used in gardens and landscaping.

Donate: Donating non-hazardous waste to organizations such as Goodwill and the Salvation Army can help reduce waste and provide a valuable service to the community.

Dispose of: When non-hazardous waste cannot be recycled or reused, it should be disposed of properly. This can include taking it to a landfill or hazardous waste facility.

Future of waste management:

With technological advancements in waste collection, sorting, and disposal, all the processes can be managed with advanced instruments and robotics. Some of the futuristic solutions for waste management are smart waste bins, plasma gasification, pneumatic waste collection, fleet management systems, al waste sorting. These all options can help to make waste management sustainable and environmentally friendly but, the infrastructure required to produce and implement these technologies need to be developed.

Algal Products

Chlorophyll Rich Diet for Good health – Reality or…

November 25, 2022December 12, 2022
by Nikita Chauhan

There is a piece of scientific evidence to support the claim that chlorophyll improves hemoglobin. Chlorophyll has a very similar structure to hemoglobin, which is an essential functional part of red blood cells that carries oxygen. Because of this similarity, chlorophyll is thought to contribute to hemoglobin production and increases RBC count in the blood. There are many different ways to get chlorophyll into the body, i.e. through nutritional supplements, vegetable juice, and eating green leafy vegetables.

The research behind chlorophyll improving hemoglobin dates back to the 1930s. Dr. Ann Wigmore, from Boston, was one of the first to suggest that chlorophyll could help improve hemoglobin levels. She noticed that people who ate a lot of dark green leafy vegetables had higher hemoglobin levels. Some laboratory experiments and animal trials also suggest the same. Many other researchers all over the world are trying to find out exactly what triggers hemoglobin production on the consumption of a chlorophyll-rich diet.

source: PharmaTutor.org

Chlorophyll

Chlorophyll is a green pigment found in plants that is essential to the process of photosynthesis. It absorbs light from the sun and uses it to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen. Plants use glucose for energy and release oxygen as a by-product. Chlorophyll is what gives plants their green color. It is also found in algae and cyanobacteria for the same function as that of plants. Apart from photosynthesis chlorophyll also helps to protect plant cells from damage by ultraviolet light called photoinhibition of the cells.

Molecular Structure: The chlorophyll molecule is a large, complex molecule composed of a porphyrin ring. The porphyrin ring of chlorophyll is what gives the molecule its distinctive green color. Its structure includes a long carbon-based “tail” and a large “head” group. The head group contains a magnesium atom at its center.

How Chlorophyll is similar to hemoglobin?

Chlorophyll and hemoglobin both have four pyrrole rings.
Both chlorophyll and hemoglobin have a central metal ion (Mg2+ for chlorophyll, Fe2+ for hemoglobin) that is essential for their function.
The structure of chlorophyll is very similar to that of hemoglobin, with the only major difference being the type of atom that is bonded to the central metal ion.
The chlorophyll molecule is distinctly planar, while hemoglobin is more three–dimensional in structure.
Due to these significant structural similarities, it is considered that chlorophyll must be having a direct contribution to hemoglobin synthesis.
But there are iron-rich plastids (chloroplast) that must be helpful in providing the required iron to the human body on the consumption of green leafy vegetables. Iron is the essential metal ion that actively contributes to hemoglobin production by supplying hemoglobin’s structural component.

Apart from these important health contribution by chlorophyll it also has many other health benefits

Health Benefits of Chlorophyll

ROS (reactive oxygen species) in the human body: Chlorophyll is a potent antioxidant that can neutralize the damaging effects of ROS. ROS (reactive oxygen species) are a group of chemically reactive molecules that contain oxygen. They have been shown to play a role in a number of human diseases, including cancer and heart disease. They can damage cells and contribute to the development of chronic inflammation.

Cancer Treatment: Chlorophyll has been shown to have some cancer-fighting properties. Researchers found that Chlorophyll can form a close bond to carcinogenic chemicals called Aflatoxins. When they bind, the Chlorophyll helps to block the absorption of the Aflatoxins (cancer-causing agents) in the intestines.
It is not yet known if chlorophyll can help treat cancer in people. More research is needed to learn more about this possible treatment. Chlorophyll may also help to protect healthy cells from damage caused by radiation therapy.

Improved digestion: Chlorophyll can help stimulate the production of enzymes that aid in digestion and absorption of nutrients.

Detoxification: Chlorophyll may help to remove toxins and heavy metals from the body. It is often used as a natural detoxifier in supplements and juices.

Boosted immunity: Chlorophyll may help to fight infection and diseases, and boost the immune system. It can also help to reduce inflammation.

Industrial Application of Chlorophyll

In Pharmaceutical

Chlorophyll along with many other medicinal components from Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) and silkworm excrement are typically used in medicines.
Application of chlorophyll in foul odor removal: When chlorophyll is applied to foul odors, it acts as a natural deodorizer. This magnesium atom is surrounded by four nitrogen atoms. These nitrogen atoms have a strong affinity for sulfur-containing compounds, which are the main cause of foul odors. When the chlorophyll molecule comes in contact with these sulfur-containing compounds, the nitrogen atoms bind to the sulfur atoms, effectively neutralizing the odor.
Also, Chlorophyll can be used as a natural dye in the pharmaceutical industry. It can be used in color capsules, tablets, and other pharmaceutical products.

Food and Cosmetics

Chlorophyll is a natural colorant that also can be used to add color to food and cosmetics. It is safe and non-toxic and it can be used to create a wide range of colors.
Anti-aging remedy: A gel containing chlorophyll to the skin reduced signs of photoaging, which is aging that results from sun exposure.
Acne treatment: A gel containing chlorophyll helped reduce facial acne and large, visible pores.

In the end, we learned that chlorophyll is basically a photosynthetic color pigment that has some structural similarities with hemoglobin. But, it may not be directly contributing to producing hemoglobin after dietary consumption. Rather, the chloroplast which is a photosynthetic plastid contains a high amount of iron, magnesium, zinc, etc. that must be having a significant role in providing metal ions to animals. Chloroplast is the essential iron-rich plant cell organelle and is important for treating iron deficiency and increasing hemoglobin production. Chlorophyll has always been thought to be the essential component of plants that might have a role in hemoglobin production due to its structural similarities, but scientific evidence is not enough to prove it. Therefore, it can be concluded that not chlorophyll as such but chloroplast whole along with chlorophyll, which helps to treat iron deficiency and improves the production of hemoglobin and red blood cells.

Algal Products

Microalgae for Wastewater Treatment

November 4, 2022December 9, 2022
by Nikita Chauhan

What is Wastewater?

Any water that has been contaminated by human interventions is considered wastewater. Wastewater basically originates from domestic, industrial, commercial, or agricultural applications. It also includes surface runoff or stormwater and any sewer input or sewer infiltration is also referred to as wastewater.

Types of Wastewaters

Sewage: sewage is wastewater that develops and comes from domestically produced wastes like toilets, food, laundry, and other wastes. The contaminants that originated in sewage water are from domestic sewage and suspended and dissolved pollutants.

Non-sewage: Non-sewage refers to all other varieties of wastewater other than sewage. It contains wastewater originating from industrial washing applications, rainwater, stormwater, and industrial effluent. It doesn’t have any additional dangerous pathogens like sewage.

Water Pollutants and their Origin

Pollutants are materials, present in concentrations that could harm creatures (including people, plants, and animals) or exceed environmental quality standards.

Types of Pollutants:

Organic and biological Pollutants: Organic pollution is a type of chemical pollution caused by persistent organic pollutants as they are difficult to remove or degrade once released into the environment, such as Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT). Other than organic pollutants biological pollutants originate from biological material that includes liquid manure, sewage treatment sludge, etc.
Inorganic Pollutants: Inorganic pollutants are the compounds of inorganic by-products arising from various industrial applications that include, chemical, pharmaceutical, textiles and dyeing industries, paints, etc. Examples of inorganic metal pollutants are arsenic, cadmium, lead, mercury, chromium, aluminum, etc.

The major water pollutants are biological matter like feces, and human and animal body fluids containing bacteria, viruses, and parasites. And industrial pollutants include insecticides, pharmaceuticals, plastics, toxic chemicals, fertilizers, and pesticides.

Depending upon the application of industrial products their origin of water contamination can be categorized into centralized and distributed sources. Whereas a point-source contaminant, like a sewage discharge or outfall pipe, enters the water from a single conduit or channel.

So, whatever the source, all type of wastewater requires treatment before releasing it into the natural water body. Most commercial and industrial manufacturing plants strictly need to process their wastewater and recycle it, despite it many continuing to produce untreated wastewater. This leads to an issue of a rise in synthetic compounds in wastewater that is harmful to nature. To remove pollutants from wastewater, effective wastewater treatment solutions are mandatory.

What is Wastewater treatment?

The process of transforming wastewater or used water into water that may be safely released back into the environment is known as wastewater treatment. The methods and procedures utilized to clean up contaminated water are referred to as industrial wastewater treatment.

Conventional Ways of Wastewater Treatment

Primary (or Physical) Treatment: To remove any suspended sand particles from wastewater, a physical procedure (Sedimentation, Aeration, and Filtration) is used. Wastewater’s velocity is decreased to allow all of the suspended particles to fall to the ground as a result of gravity. The settling substance is referred to as sludge or bio soil.
Secondary (or Biological) Treatment: It is a biological process (Aerobic, Anaerobic, and Composing) that uses bacteria, algae, and microorganisms to take up the organic material in the wastewater. All of the organic contaminants are consumed by microbes, who then transform them into carbon dioxide, water, or energy for their further development or as byproducts.
Tertiary (or Chemical) Treatment: The pollutants or biological agents mostly pathogens that remain after secondary treatment are treated in tertiary treatment. Use of oxidizing agents like Chlorine liquid, Ozon gas, and UV rays, that kill most of the pathogen and make water free of pathogenic contamination. Through the employment of stronger and more sophisticated treatment systems, wastewater effluent is made even cleaner during this treatment process.

Conventional wastewater treatments eliminated major pollutants but they are unable to remove dissolved nutrients and toxic metals. This wastewater also contains nitrogen, phosphorus, ammonia, and bacteria. This often acts as a source of NPK contamination in a local water body. These pollutants lead to the eutrophication of waterbody once released into the environment which deteriorates the local water ecosystem.

Additionally, the traditional wastewater treatment method now has many drawbacks. Including increased chemical needs, high maintenance costs, sludge disposal issues, higher space and energy needs, and degradability issues. Therefore finding additional or even alternative options with conventional methods is very essential.

Why Microalgae for Wastewater Treatment?

Credit: Euronews Next

In order to handle wastewater treatment ponds naturally and economically, natural methods like employing microalgae cultures are now being studied. In terms of its capacity to remove NPK nutrients, coliform bacteria, and heavy metals, the microalgal approach competes favorably with conventional treatments. Microalgae are so effective at absorbing pollutants that other bacterial species can’t do. Microalgal species like Chlorella, Scenedesmus, Nannochloropsis, Phormedium, Botryococcus, Synechocystis, Spirogyra, etc., are well known for their effective wastewater treatment abilities.

Microalgae, serve as an indicator of water quality, with some strains proliferating in polluted water while others thrive in unpolluted water. Also, Algae can be used in wastewater treatment for a range of purposes. Some of these are used for the removal of coliform bacteria, reduction of both chemical and biochemical oxygen demand, and also removal of heavy metals.

Bio-treatment with microalgae is particularly attractive because of their photosynthetic capabilities, converting solar energy into useful biomasses and incorporating polluting NPK nutrients. Wastewater treatment by microalgae generates biomass. It could be utilized for developing various other products, such as fertilizers and biofuels.

A. Exceeding the prescribed discharge limits of physicochemical parameters

Suspended Solids:

Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD):

Mineral and Nutrients:

Oil and Grease in ETP:

Colorants and heavy and toxic metal ions from Metal industries:

Emerging Contaminants:

B. Energy Consumption:

C. Sludge Production

D. Environmental Footprints

E. Issues under STP/ETP Management

Shortage of Resources/Technology/Field Experts

Funding

Need for advanced Technology

Electricity

Manpower (Field experts)

Fragmentation of Operation (Inappropriate Data Recording)

Lack of real-time monitoring for precise output of the system

F. Seasonal Variation

F. Microbial Concentration/Inoculum

G. Algae Bloom

Conclusion

References:

Health, Environment, and Social concerns associated with wastewater:

Precautionary measurements are taken to avoid wastewater-related issues

Wastewater collection

Wastewater specific treatment

STP

Primary, Secondary, and Tertiary treatment process in STP:

Primary Treatment

Secondary Treatment

Tertiary Treatment

ETP

Primary, Secondary, and Tertiary treatment process in ETP:

Primary Treatment

Secondary Treatment

Oil and petroleum industry:

Textile industry (Dyes and paints, colorants,):

Metallurgic, chemical, and Fertilizer industry:

Tertiary Treatment

Final water disposal activities:

Drainage System:

Wastewater Collection:

Wastewater Collection Categories:

Treatment and Discharge:

Tabulation of general wastewater parameters

Constructed wetlands:

Water Lagoons:

Importance of Wastewater management

Conclusion:

Ways of Waste Management:

A. Innovative Solutions:

Waste-to-Energy Technology:

Smart Waste Bins:

Plasma Gasification:

Pneumatic Waste Collection:

Fleet Management System:

AI Waste Sorting:

Bioremediation of waste dumping site to remove pollutants (Toxic and Heavy metals) by biomining and bioleaching

B. Other Modern Technologies:

C. Technological interventions in Biological and biochemical Solutions:

Localized Composting Models:

Anaerobic Digestion (AD) of Environment Polluting Biowaste:

Agricultural waste for bioenergy generation:

Liquid Waste:

Scrubbing of Environmental Pollutants from the Industrial Effluent and Stack Gases:

Use of Enzymes in Wastewater Treatment:

Phyto, Phyco, and Microbial Remediation:

Green House Gases (GHGs) – CO2 sequestration using Phycoremediation and Phytoremediation:

Conclusion and Future Prospects:

What is Waste?

Classification of Waste

Classification Depending upon the Waste Types:

Solid Waste:

Liquid Waste:

Classification Depending upon the Source:

Depending upon its Management:

Classification by the Categories:

Solid Waste Management:

Liquid Waste Management:

Green House Gases (GHGs) – CO₂ sequestration using Phycoremediation and Phytoremediation: