Sewage

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Sewage is a type of wastewater that is produced by a community of people. It is typically transported through a sewage system to a sewage treatment plant where it is treated and then discharged to the environment. Sewage is a major carrier of disease and can also lead to environmental problems if not properly managed.

Types of Sewage[edit | edit source]

There are three types of sewage: domestic, industrial, and stormwater.

  • Domestic sewage is produced by residential and commercial buildings. It includes human waste, soaps, detergents, and food waste.
  • Industrial sewage is produced by industrial processes. It can contain a wide range of pollutants, including heavy metals, organic compounds, and chemicals.
  • Stormwater is rainwater that has run off the land. It can pick up pollutants as it flows over the ground, including sediment, nutrients, bacteria, and chemicals.

Sewage Treatment[edit | edit source]

Sewage treatment is the process of removing contaminants from sewage to produce an effluent that can be safely discharged to the environment. The process typically involves three stages: primary, secondary, and tertiary treatment.

  • Primary treatment involves the removal of large solids and grit. This is usually achieved through screening and sedimentation.
  • Secondary treatment involves the biological breakdown of dissolved organic matter using bacteria. This is usually achieved through aeration and the use of activated sludge.
  • Tertiary treatment involves the removal of nutrients and any remaining solids. This is usually achieved through filtration and disinfection.

Environmental Impact[edit | edit source]

Sewage can have a significant impact on the environment if not properly managed. It can contaminate water bodies, leading to water pollution and the spread of disease. It can also contribute to eutrophication, a process where excess nutrients in water bodies lead to excessive growth of algae and other aquatic plants, which can deplete oxygen levels and harm aquatic life.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Sewage Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD