How can nutrient removal be effectively achieved in wastewater treatment?

Nutrient removal in wastewater treatment is effectively achieved by employing enhanced biological phosphorus removal (EBPR) and nitrification-denitrification processes. EBPR is a biological process that enhances the removal of phosphorus by utilizing specialized microorganisms that take up excess phosphorus and store it in their cells. This allows for the effective removal of phosphorus from the wastewater when these microorganisms are subsequently separated during the treatment process.

Nitrification-denitrification is another critical biological process utilized for nitrogen removal. In this two-step process, ammonia is first converted to nitrate through nitrification, which is then transformed into nitrogen gas through denitrification. This transformation occurs under anaerobic conditions where denitrifying bacteria utilize the nitrate as an electron acceptor, thereby minimizing nitrogen levels in the effluent.

The combination of these biological processes is highly effective because they occur naturally and are energy efficient, helping to maintain a balance of nutrients in the treated water, thereby preventing eutrophication in receiving water bodies. Other methods, such as chemical filtration or the addition of nutrient-rich chemicals, do not provide the same level of nutrient reduction effectiveness and sustainability in the long term.