Nature-Based Technologies for Wastewater Treatment and Bioenergy ProductionOpen Access
An accessible ePub edition is available here
With 80% of wastewater globally discharged untreated and non-renewable energy resources rapidly depleting, the call for sustainable solutions has never been louder.
Nature-Based Technologies for Wastewater Treatment and Bioenergy Production explores the groundbreaking integration of natural systems and advanced technologies to address critical global challenges in wastewater management and renewable energy. This book delves into nature-based technological approaches such as constructed wetlands, bio-aided filtration systems, and photobioreactors for microalgae cultivation, showcasing their potential to transform wastewater into a valuable resource while significantly reducing the environmental footprint.
Rooted in innovative research, the book emphasizes advanced techniques for nutrient recovery, pollutant removal, and carbon capture. It examines the role of emerging technologies, such as high-rate algal ponds and hybrid treatment systems, in achieving cost-effective and energy-efficient wastewater treatment. Highlighting the science behind microalgae-based biodiesel production, the book also explores the potential of algae-derived bioproducts such as biofertilizers, bioplastics, and animal feed supplements, underscoring the role of these innovations in building a sustainable bioeconomy.
Rich in real-world applications, this reference work provides practical insights for academia, researchers, students, industry professionals, scholars, practitioners, and policymakers. It addresses critical issues such as wastewater management, rising energy demands, and carbon footprint while demonstrating scalable solutions for global implementation.
Nature-Based Technologies for Wastewater Treatment and Bioenergy Production envisions a future where nature-inspired technologies lead to a thriving circular bioeconomy. By combining natural processes with advanced technologies, this book lays the roadmap for transforming environmental challenges into sustainable opportunities and fostering cleaner and more resilient planetary health.
ISBN: 9781789064094 (paperback)
ISBN: 9781789064100 (eBook)
ISBN: 9781789064117 (ePub)
Chapter 8: The state of wastewater treatment plants and how it is affecting the effluent discharge quality within the water bodies of Gauteng Open Access
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Published:February 2025
P. Jiyane, K. B. Hoorzook, N. Janse van Rensburg, 2025. "The state of wastewater treatment plants and how it is affecting the effluent discharge quality within the water bodies of Gauteng", Nature-Based Technologies for Wastewater Treatment and Bioenergy Production, Imran Ahmad, Norhayati Abdullah
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Abstract
A crucial component of both environmental sustainability and human welfare is water quality. The demand for freshwater resources has significantly increased due to growing urbanization and industrialization, which has resulted in the production of enormous amounts of wastewater. Wastewater is the water-carried waste that is removed from formal and informal residences, institutions, commercial, and industrial establishments, together with the groundwater, surface water, stormwater, and potable water as may be present. The primary objective of collection and wastewater treatment is to ensure that the effluent discharged to the environment does not pose serious threats to both human health and environment. There is an increasing concern of wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) to perform against the required standards and expectations. The majority of WWTPs fail to meet at least three or more of the respective effluent discharge standards. Their performance infrastructure: challenges such as ageing infrastructure; historical low base budget allocation for repairs, operations, and maintenance; ‘catch-up’ mode to ensure optimal operation and maintenance planning with regards to the installation of new infrastructure and technologies; under investment in sewer collection and sludge handling infrastructure; low skill base to manage, operate, and maintain the specialized nature of wastewater services; meeting the demand of rapidly increasing housing developments; and inadequate design or technology decisions for the specific municipal environment. The effectiveness of WWTPs in improving water quality is evidenced by the removal of contaminants such as suspended solids, organic matter, nitrogen, phosphorus, and pathogens. Their successful operation leads to reduced eutrophication, decreased waterborne diseases, and the protection of aquatic biodiversity. Moreover, treated wastewater can be safely discharged into natural water bodies or reused for various purposes, including irrigation, industrial processes, and even potable water supply in water-stressed regions. The above paragraph serves as an overview on how WWTPs play a crucial role in safeguarding water quality and promoting sustainable water management practices. As global populations continue to grow, and environmental challenges become increasingly complex, the development and implementation of innovative technologies and sustainable practices in WWTPs are paramount. These efforts not only contribute to cleaner water but also align with broader goals of environmental conservation and public health protection.