Purification of Water

Water is an integral part of our daily lives We are made up of water We need water to drink, clean, and grow food The average American uses 176 gallons of water daily That amounts to a lot of wastewater...

What is wastewater? Used water The water that goes down our drains contains human waste, food, oils, soaps, and chemicals Water used by homes, industries, and businesses must be treated before it is released back into the environment

Solution? Treatment plants reduce pollutants in wastewater to a manageable level

The Process The goal: remove as much solids as possible before remaining water discharged back into environment Primary treatment: removes 60% of solids Secondary treatment: removes more than 90% of solids

Why treat wastewater? Plants and animals that live in or near water need clean water to survive Quality of Life Health

Problem: Ammonia Widely used as a cleaning agent in domestic and industrial processes Ends up in wastewater and must be treated It's difficult to remove it all!

What is Ammonia? One of the most commonly produced industrial chemical in the US Toxic at high levels! Death of animals, birds, fish, plants

Effects on the Environment Eutrophication Buildup of nutrients in water = more plant growth = less oxygen in the water Death of aquatic life Changes in Ecosystems Weeds may outcompete native plants May lead to extinction of native or weaker species

Effects on the Environment When ammonia combines with emissions from factories or cars, they form particles that contribute to smog Smog leads to an increased rate of respiratory and heart diseases

Solution? Ammonia oxidizing bacteria!!

What are Ammonia Oxidizing Bacteria (AOBs)? AOBs are widespread in soil and water They are found in high numbers where large amounts of ammonia are present (like in wastewater treatment plants!)

What do they do? AOBs convert ammonia to nitrite Nitrates are more environmentally friendly than ammonia!

What do they do? This process, process called nitrification, is necessary for the maintenance of a healthy ocean and a clean environment! Hooray!!

How can I help? Learn more about water purification plants in your area – take a tour! Spread your knowledge and initiative to others Pick up trash