The Development of Best Optimum Solutions to Drainage Problems

New computer-based approaches to the management of wastewater systems have been developed in response to increasingly stringent legislation. Technical models are now available for the simulation of the quantity and quality performance of sewerage systems, treatment works and receiving waters. In order to formulate the best optimum solutions to accord with the requirements of legislation and minimise costs, cost models now need to be combined with the technical models. This will give an integrated suite of software as the basis for a holistic appraisal of wastewater system performance. Studies are described for the UK in which detailed research studies in one catchment have provided the basis for the formulation of a planned holistic approach to a second catchment using systems analysis techniques.