BiOWiSH helps communities improve wastewater treatment operations

Feb 1 2012

A novel technology named BiOWiSH™ is helping communities in emerging markets improve their wastewater treatment operations without building or expanding infrastructure, according to the findings of a new case study. This development has the potential to revolutionize the industry since high construction and energy costs are two of the biggest impediments to effective wastewater treatment in many areas.

BiOWiSH™-Aqua was used at a municipal wastewater treatment facility in Barranquilla, Colombia. Within weeks, biological oxygen demand (BOD) and total suspended solids (TSS), were reduced by approximately 50%. These outcomes resulted in increased capacity and minimized bottlenecks in the system.

"Communities in developing nations are working hard to do a better job of treating wastewater, recognizing its impact on human health," said BiOWiSH Technologies Senior Executive Vice President of Environment, David Fennema. "BiOWiSH allows them to make these improvements without the need to build costly facilities or make expensive improvements to existing infrastructures."

Many facilities in emerging markets discharge contaminated wastewater because they simply can't process it as quickly as it comes in. This issue leads to polluted waterways, drinking water and other environmental and health issues for people living there.

"The improvement in water clarity and solids reduction, allowed the city of Barranquilla to meet discharge requirements without expanding its infrastructure. The cost savings of not having to build new facilities is estimated to be up to $20M (USD)," Fennema added.

Source: BiOWiSH Technologies