Waste Processing

Wastewater must be treated before discharge to the environment for reasons of health, aesthetics, and protection of aquatic life. Without treatment, the oxygen-consuming components of waste water compete with aquatic life and thus cause fish kills. Sanitary wastewater (created in homes and restrooms) can contain pathogens that spread disease such as cholera, typhoid, and hepatitis. The decomposition of wastewater can generate smells and scum on water bodies, detracting from the appeal of streams…