Industrial effluent: an overview

Industrial effluent is a type of wastewater that is generated from industrial processes by factories, manufacturing plants, and refineries. It usually contains a variety of pollutants such as heavy metals, organic compounds, and other hazardous materials.

Why industrial effluent is regulated

If discharged directly into rivers, lakes, and oceans, industrial effluent can have serious environmental consequences. It can cause water pollution, deplete oxygen levels in water, and harm aquatic life. It can also contaminate drinking water and cause health problems for humans.

In many countries, industrial effluent is strictly regulated and treated before it is released into the environment. In the UK, businesses in all industries must adhere to their wastewater discharge conditions, which in turn adhere to regulatory requirements set out by the Environment Agency.

Failure discharge conditions can result in fines, legal fees and increased insurance premiums, not to mention the cost of any remedial work following a pollution incident. There is also the “invisible” cost of reputation damage , as customers may not want to trade with a company possessing a poor environmental record.

How industrial effluent is treated

There are several methods for treating industrial effluent. The most common method is physical-chemical treatment, which involves the use of chemical flocculants and filtration systems to remove pollutants from the effluent. Biological treatment is also used, which involves the use of microorganisms to break down pollutants.

Finally, advanced oxidation processes can be used to break down pollutants in industrial effluent. This process involves the use of ultraviolet light, ozone, and hydrogen peroxide to break down pollutants. All of these methods can be used to treat effluent, ensuring that it is safe to be released into the environment.

Get the right treatment system for your business

With over 30 years in the industry, Aqua Advice the knowledge and skills to conduct a full operational review of your effluent treatment systems and processes.

Based on our findings, we will identify areas where efficiency can be optimised and offer solutions as to how this can be achieved.

Whether you need an upgrade to your existing treatment systems or require a brand new treatment plant, Aqua Advice can deliver bespoke effluent treatment solutions.

Get in touch today to discuss what we can do for you.