In a groundbreaking study published in ‘Heliyon’, researchers have unveiled the potential of microalgal technologies to revolutionize wastewater treatment in tropical climates. Led by Gabriela Santos Cardozo from the Bauru College of Engineering at São Paulo State University, this research highlights the significant impacts of seasonal variations on the efficiency of treating anaerobically digested sanitary wastewater using native microalgae.
The study meticulously examined the treatment processes during two distinct seasons in the Cerrado Biome, specifically summer and winter. Cardozo’s team utilized a closed photobioreactor setup, leveraging anaerobically digested wastewater processed through two different mechanisms: the Upflow Anaerobic Filter (UAF) and the Anaerobic Baffled Reactor (ABR). The results were striking, particularly during the summer months, where the UAF achieved impressive phosphorus and nitrogen removal rates of 76% and 84%, respectively. The ABR performed even better, with 83% phosphorus and 85% nitrogen removal.
“Microalgal technology can serve as a tertiary treatment in tropical climates, promoting the reintegration of water into the production cycle,” Cardozo stated, emphasizing the alignment of this technology with circular economy principles. The ability to effectively treat wastewater not only addresses environmental concerns but also opens avenues for non-potable reuse, particularly for agricultural irrigation.
The winter results, while slightly less effective for the ABR, still showed remarkable removal rates, with the UAF achieving 86% phosphorus and 89% nitrogen removal. The study also noted a significant reduction in generic bacteria, with summer experiments showing E. coli levels below 100 CFU·100 ml⁻1, which indicates that the treated effluent could be safely used for unrestricted irrigation.
This research has critical implications for the water, sanitation, and drainage sector, particularly in regions facing water scarcity. By harnessing the power of local microalgae, municipalities and industries can reduce reliance on traditional wastewater treatment methods, which are often energy-intensive and costly. The potential for commercial applications is vast, as agricultural sectors could benefit from a sustainable source of treated water, thereby enhancing food security while contributing to environmental sustainability.
As industries increasingly seek innovative solutions to manage wastewater, the findings of Cardozo and her team pave the way for future developments in the field. By integrating microalgal technologies into existing systems, stakeholders can not only improve treatment efficiency but also promote a more sustainable approach to water management.
For more information on this pivotal research, readers can explore the work of Gabriela Santos Cardozo at the Bauru College of Engineering. The implications of this study are sure to resonate within the water management community, as it underscores the importance of adapting treatment technologies to local climatic conditions while fostering a circular economy.
