1.3 What are the Objectives of Effluent Treatment?

The three primary objectives of effluent treatment are listed below in order of their importance:

Protection of Public Health: The paramount objective is to ensure that the treated effluent poses no risks to human health. This involves thorough pathogen removal, disinfection, and measures to prevent the transmission of waterborne diseases.

Protection of Environmental Health: Equally critical is safeguarding the health of the environment. Efforts are directed at minimising the impact of discharged effluent on aquatic ecosystems, preventing eutrophication, maintaining biodiversity, and preventing ecological disturbances.

Resource Recovery: Maximising resource recovery from the treated effluent is another significant objective. This involves reclaiming valuable nutrients, energy, or other beneficial components that can be reused or repurposed, promoting sustainability.

Further refinement of the treatment objectives hinges on whether the final effluent will be disposed of or reused. Guidance or regulations play a vital role in shaping precise treatment strategies.