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Wastewater goes through several stages of treatment before it is allowed to be used for environmental, agricultural or industrial use. When wastewater leaves a home or office, or travels through a sewage system, it is delivered to a wastewater treatment facility. There the solid particles are separated from the water using techniques such as screen filtering, allowing the water to sit so that solid objects sink out of the water, while the oils float to the top. Once this step is complete, the water is treated for bacterial contamination by being stored at low oxygen levels, aerated and then treated with chlorine. This process removes 90 percent of the contaminants in the water.
Wastewater Recycling
Recycling wastewater is the concern of one national wastewater association. The National Onsite Wastewater Recycling Association (NOWRA) is dedicated to regulating and encouraging wastewater recycling. Treated wastewater can be used for a number of environmental causes, including rehabilitating ecosystems and replenishing aquifers. Additionally, the water can be used in industry cooling and as irrigation for agriculture. NOWRA's mission is to enact a code of ethics and professionalism in its certified member wastewater-treatment facilities. The organization also provides consumer services by linking people with regional certified septic-system operators and helping homeowners set up their own septic-treatment systems.
Environmental Protection Agency
The United States Environmental Protection Agency also encourages, promotes and regulates wastewater management and recycling at the national level. The goal of this department is to protect surface waters from contamination, thus protecting national watersheds. Additionally, the Wastewater Management Department at the EPA also works at the local and state level to regulate safe wastewater disposal and recycling efforts.
Other Organizations
Additionally, there are national organizations dedicated to preserving the quality and safety of water sources, with an emphasis on safe wastewater treatment and disposal. For instance, the American Water Works Association and the National Association of Clean Water Agencies have organized leadership conferences to increase awareness about proper wastewater disposal and recycling techniques. In addition, the two organizations have partnered with other water-protection associations to open the Water and Wastewater Leadership Center in Chapel Hill, N.C. Additionally, the National Association of Wastewater Transporters is dedicated to the safe transportation of wastewater.