An Overview of Wastewater Characteristics, Treatment and Disposal: A Review

Abstract

Wastewater treatment is a critical aspect of environmental management, aimed at mitigating the adverse effects of urbanization and industrialization on water bodies. This review provides a comprehensive overview of wastewater characteristics, treatment methods, and disposal options. Wastewater composition varies widely depending on its source, encompassing domestic, industrial, and agricultural effluents. Key constituents include organic matter, nutrients, heavy metals, and pathogens, all of which can pose significant environmental and public health risks if left untreated. Various treatment processes are employed to remove or reduce contaminants from wastewater, including physical, chemical, and biological methods. These processes include screening, sedimentation, filtration, biological oxidation, and advanced treatments such as membrane filtration and ozonation. Each method targets specific pollutants, with the goal of producing effluent that meets regulatory standards for discharge or reuse. Finally, disposal of treated wastewater presents challenges related to sustainability and environmental impact. Common disposal options include discharge into surface waters, infiltration into groundwater, and reuse for irrigation or industrial purposes. Each option carries its own set of environmental, economic, and social considerations, highlighting the need for integrated wastewater management approaches. This review underscores the importance of wastewater treatment in safeguarding water resources and public health, while also emphasizing the importance of considering the broader environmental implications of treatment and disposal practices.