Wastewater from camps is particularly suitable for reuse because it is usually just slightly polluted. It consists mainly of grey water, black water and kitchen wastewater. For this reason, many solutions are suitable for wastewater treatment in camps.
Camp Wastewater Treatment and Management Options
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A comprehensive overview of wastewater treatment in camps
Camp Wastewater Treatment and Management Options
In our previous article we talked about the sources and composition of wastewater in settings such as work camps, humanitarian camps, military camps etc. In this article we will look at options for managing wastewater in camp settings, with a particular focus on onsite treatment and discharge to the environment. We will also break down some of the most commonly used wastewater treatment processes technologies used in remote camps and give working examples.
Wastewater Storage and Tankering Offsite
Small or short-term camps may employ this wastewater management option due to their limited size and duration. These camps typically have a smaller wastewater volume that does not warrant the investment in a dedicated treatment plant. Instead, they rely on storage tanks and offsite treatment facilities as a solution for wastewater management during their temporary operations. It is important, however, to ensure the availability of a compliant treatment facility and to assess transportation costs and potential environmental risks associated with the handling and transportation of wastewater.
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Onsite Wastewater Treatment and Discharge to the Environment
Onsite wastewater treatment involves the processing of wastewater to a standard that is safe for discharge into the environment. It is a more sustainable and cost-effective solution in the long run, particularly for larger, long-term or more remote camps like refugee camps or military camps. The type of treatment required largely depends on the local regulatory discharge standards of the region, which can vary significantly. For instance, basic primary treatment is adequate for some regions, while others require advanced tertiary treatment. It’s essential that treatment systems are correctly specified to meet the local or regional discharge requirements.
Onsite Wastewater Treatment and Reuse
Treating wastewater to standard that it can be reused within the camp is the highest level of wastewater management in camp settings. This option has become more popular, especially in water-scarce regions or regions with stricter environmental regulations. Reusing treated wastewater helps reduce water demand for various non-potable purposes like dust suppression, irrigation, vehicle washing, or toilet flushing. Although initial capital costs for advanced treatment may be higher, the long-term advantages in water conservation and environmental sustainability make it a worthwhile investment in any long-term camp setting.
Camp Wastewater Treatment and Management: Process Technologies
Wastewater Collection and Pumping
In any wastewater treatment system, the initial and crucial stage involves collecting and transferring wastewater from A to B. This process relies on a network of sewers and pump stations to transport wastewater from its origin to the treatment plant at the camp. One critical aspect of this step is designing the pump station correctly. This involves determining the correct pump size and type, designing the wet well capacity, and planning for duty and standby pumps to ensure reliability and redundancy. In addition, a well-designed control system with alarms for pump failure, high water levels, and power loss is essential for ensuring the system operates correctly and consistently.
An appropriate example of this application is a remote mining camp. These camps house many workers for the duration of the project and are often established in remote areas where infrastructure is limited. In such camps, wastewater is generated from various sources, including accommodation facilities, dining areas, and sanitary facilities.
The wastewater collection and pumping system in a remote mining camp play a crucial role in maintaining hygiene, sanitation, and the overall well-being of the workers. It ensures that wastewater is properly collected and transported away from the residential areas within the camp, reducing the risk of contamination, odors, and health hazards.
Mechanical Pre-treatment
Once wastewater reaches the treatment plant, the first step is typically mechanical pre-treatment. This step involves physical processes to remove larger solid material from the wastewater stream, which could otherwise block or damage downstream processes.
An appropriate example of the application of pre-treatment in a camp setting is a refugee camp with communal sanitary facilities. In such a camp, multiple toilets and showers are available for use by many individuals. The wastewater generated from these facilities needs to be properly treated to maintain hygiene and prevent environmental contamination. To ensure effective pre-treatment of the wastewater, an automatic, mechanical self-cleaning screw screen [link to product] can be installed. This system is designed to remove larger solid materials and non-biodegradable items from the wastewater stream before it enters the treatment plant.
By employing this technology in the camp’s treatment plant, the screw screens play a vital role in protecting downstream processes from blockages and equipment damage. It enhances the overall treatment performance, reduces the maintenance requirements, and ensures a reliable and efficient wastewater management system in the refugee camp.
Flow Equalization
Flow equalization evens out peak flows and low flows by storing excess wastewater during high-flow periods and gradually releasing it during low-flow periods.
An example of a camp setting where flow equalization would be applicable is a large construction camp that experiences significant variations in wastewater flow rates throughout the day. In such a camp, where a considerable number of workers are present and engage in various activities that generate wastewater, the flow rate entering the treatment plant can fluctuate significantly.
During peak periods, such as mealtimes or when workers return from their shifts, the wastewater flow rate can be substantially higher. Without flow equalization, these high flow rates could overload the treatment system, resulting in reduced treatment efficiency and potentially compromising the quality of treated wastewater.
By implementing flow equalization in the camp’s wastewater management system, the excess wastewater during peak periods can be stored and gradually released during low flow periods. This process ensures a consistent and manageable flow rate entering the treatment plant, allowing for optimal treatment performance and efficiency throughout the day.
Flow equalization in this camp setting not only enhances treatment effectiveness but also helps reduce the size and cost of downstream treatment processes. By designing the treatment plant to handle average flow conditions rather than peak flows, the infrastructure can be optimized, resulting in improved cost-effectiveness and operational efficiency.
Biological Treatment
Biological treatment plays a crucial role in treating sewage and converting it into clean effluent in various camp settings. Depending on the specific requirements and constraints of each camp, different methods of biological treatment can be employed, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor (MBBR)
In an MBBR system, bacteria grow on plastic carriers that are kept in constant motion within the reactor. This system is highly efficient due to the large surface area available for biofilm growth. It is also highly robust and capable of handling variable loads well. However, it requires an additional clarifier to separate the treated wastewater from the biofilm carriers and can have issues with media clogging.
Fixed Bed Biofilm Reactor (FBBR)
FBBR technology uses a fixed bed for bacteria growth instead of moving media. This method also provides a high surface area for efficient treatment. It does not require sludge recycling, which simplifies operation and maintenance, and its performance is high.
Membrane Bioreactor (MBR)
MBR technology combines biological treatment with a membrane filtration process. It is highly effective, producing high-quality effluent suitable for reuse applications. However, the system requires more energy and has higher capital and operating costs. MBR provides a high level of treatment, ensuring the production of clean and reusable water.
Extended Aeration
This system operates by supplying wastewater with oxygen for a prolonged period, which promotes the growth of microorganisms that break down the organic matter. It is simple to operate, produces less sludge than other processes, and can handle shock loads. However, it requires a larger footprint due to the long aeration period and has higher energy consumption.
Ask us which process technology is best for your camp
| Technology | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| MBBR | High surface area, robust, handles variable loads | Requires additional clarifier, potential media clogging |
| FBBR | High surface area, no sludge recycle, high performance | Requires skilled manufacturing and technical knowledge from the system supplier |
| MBR | High-quality effluent, suitable for reuse | Higher energy requirement, higher capital and operating costs |
| Extended Aeration | Simple operation, less sludge production, handles shock loads | Larger footprint, high energy consumption |
You will find an in-depth comparison of MBBR, FBBR and MBR process technologies here.
Sludge management and post treatment
Wastewater treatment does not end with the actual biological treatment step. The clear water separation from the sludge is particularly important. There are various options for this that have proven themselves in practice. Depending on country-specific requirements and reuse, subsequent disinfection of the wastewater is necessary.
Clarifiers
After biological treatment, the wastewater usually moves to clarifiers. These are large settling tanks that allow the remaining suspended solids to settle to the bottom. The settled solids (sludge) are then removed from the bottom of the tank for further treatment or disposal. The clarified water, meanwhile, moves on to further treatment or discharge. By incorporating clarification in the wastewater treatment process, construction camps can effectively improve the water quality, meeting regulatory standards and environmental requirements. The clarified water can then be discharged safely or subjected to additional treatment for reuse purposes within the camp, such as irrigation or non-potable water applications. This promotes sustainability and minimizes the impact on the surrounding environment, contributing to responsible wastewater management in camp settings.
Optional Filtration and Disinfection
Depending on the discharge requirements or the intended reuse, further treatment may be necessary. Filtration can be used to remove any remaining suspended solids and can also help to reduce color and odor. Disinfection, typically with chlorine or ultraviolet light, is used to kill any remaining pathogens in the water.
For discharge into the environment, ClearFox can design systems to meet any local regulations, but it is recommended to include nutrient removal and disinfection to ensure a high level of environmental protection.
For reuse applications, more advanced treatment is required to produce a high-quality effluent that is safe for reuse. This can include additional filtration steps and advanced disinfection to ensure all pathogens are eliminated. The treated water can then be used for a variety of non-potable uses within the camp, such as irrigation, vehicle washing, dust suppression, and toilet flushing.
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Conclusion
Proper camp wastewater treatment and management play a vital role in safeguarding public health, protecting the environment, and promoting sustainable practices. By adopting suitable treatment options and employing process technologies like wastewater collection, pumping, mechanical pre-treatment, flow equalization, biological treatment, clarifiers, and optional filtration and disinfection, camps can effectively manage their wastewater. Moreover, exploring opportunities for wastewater reuse can aid in conserving valuable water resources.
However, it is essential to recognize that each camp has its unique circumstances, and the selection of wastewater treatment options and process technologies should be tailored to the specific needs and constraints of the camp in question. Camp administrators, environmental experts, and relevant stakeholders must collaborate to develop comprehensive wastewater management strategies that prioritize health, sustainability, and compliance with regulations.
By implementing robust wastewater treatment and management practices in camps, we can create healthier living environments, protect ecosystems, and contribute to the well-being of camp residents and the surrounding communities.
