Understanding Sewage Treatment Processes

Sewage

Wastewater from toilets, showers, sinks, and runoff from roads, roofs, and industries.

Sewage Treatment Location

At a wastewater treatment facility.

Three Stages of Sewage Treatment

Primary, Secondary, and Tertiary treatment.

Primary Treatment

Solids like rocks, garbage, and sediments are removed (mechanical mixtures).

Purpose of Secondary Treatment

Uses aeration and bacteria to break down organic material (biological process).

Tertiary Treatment

Chemicals like chlorine are added to disinfect and remove phosphates.

Final Goal of Wastewater Treatment

To make the water safe to reuse or return to nature.

Importance of Recycling Containers

Containers can harm the environment if littered; recycling reduces environmental damage.

Example of a Harmful Mixture

Lead-based paint; it must go in special landfills due to toxic lead.

Sewage and Harmful Mixtures

Solids are removed and decomposed by bacteria, reducing environmental harm.

Danger of Used Nuclear Fuel Rods

They remain radioactive for thousands of years and need special disposal.