What is the primary goal of wastewater treatment facilities?

The primary goal of wastewater treatment facilities is to remove harmful substances from water before it is released into the environment. This process is crucial because untreated wastewater can contain a variety of pollutants, including bacteria, viruses, heavy metals, and organic materials that can harm aquatic ecosystems and public health.

Wastewater treatment involves several stages, such as physical, chemical, and biological processes, to effectively reduce the levels of these contaminants. The end result is treated water that is much safer for discharge into rivers, lakes, or oceans, thereby protecting both the environment and human health.

Recycling sewage into drinking water is a viable process in some advanced treatment systems, but it is not the primary function of all wastewater facilities. Similarly, while some treatments may aim to sanitize water for specific recreational purposes, the overarching goal remains focused on the removal of harmful substances to ensure environmental safety and compliance with regulations. Storing sewage until it decomposes does not adequately address the need for safety and environmental protection, and merely storing untreated sewage poses potential risks.