Managing wastewater has emerged as a major concern in South Africa, with over 850 wastewater treatment works (WWTWs) serving the population through an extensive network of pipelines and pump stations. According to the 2023 Green Drop Watch Report, 334 municipal wastewater systems were found to be in a poor state, with many of these systems scoring below 31% on the Green Drop audit. This highlights the urgent need for advanced wastewater solutions that address infrastructure challenges facing municipalities. The Green Drop initiative, revitalised in 2021, aims to elevate the standard of wastewater management by monitoring and supporting corrective action plans. These efforts underscore the importance of modern, efficient wastewater treatment systems in safeguarding public health and protecting the environment. As water scarcity continues to challenge South Africa, our Nusolutions for treating, recycling, and reusing wastewater are more vital than ever. What Are Advanced Wastewater Solutions?NuWater defines advanced and sustainable wastewater management as any procedure capable of reducing pollutants in wastewater to levels lower than those achievable with conventional secondary or biological treatment. Wastewater is a broad term that encompasses all used water from domestic, commercial, and industrial activities. It includes water from sinks, showers, toilets, washing machines, and other sources. This wastewater can contain a range of contaminants, including organic matter, chemicals, pathogens, and suspended solids. These advanced treatment solutions have become an area of global interest as individuals, communities, and industries identify ways to keep essential resources available and suitable for use. Advanced wastewater treatment is necessary as society mitigates the impacts of increased population, urbanisation, industrialisation, and the depletion of potable water. Types of Wastewater Treatment SystemsGreywater SystemsGreywater is wastewater from baths, sinks, and laundry, which is less contaminated than water from toilets. Greywater systems collect and treat this type of wastewater, allowing it to be reclaimed for purposes like irrigation or toilet flushing. This helps reduce the demand for fresh water and promotes water conservation. Septic SystemsSeptic tanks are used in areas where centralised sewage systems are unavailable. These underground tanks treat wastewater by separating solids, which settle at the bottom, from liquids. The treated liquid then moves into a drain field for further treatment. Regular maintenance is essential to keep these systems functioning properly. Wastewater Treatment Plants (WWTPs)WWTPs handle a large volume of wastewater from industrial and municipal sources. These plants use a combination of physical, chemical, and biological processes to treat the water, making it safe to release back into the environment or reuse in industrial applications. WWTPs offer an efficient way to manage wastewater on a larger scale. How Advanced Wastewater Solutions Benefit BusinessesWater RecoveryOne of the most important advantages of advanced wastewater treatment is water recycling. Treated water can be safely reused for non-drinking purposes, reducing the strain on freshwater supplies. This is particularly valuable in areas facing water shortages, where every drop counts. Reduced PollutionUntreated wastewater can carry harmful chemicals, pathogens, and other pollutants. By treating wastewater before it’s released, businesses can help protect rivers, lakes, and oceans from contamination. This not only preserves biodiversity but also keeps water safe for communities that rely on these natural resources. Nutrient RecoveryWastewater contains valuable nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus, which are essential for plant growth. Some advanced systems are designed to capture these nutrients and repurpose them for agricultural use. This reduces the need for chemical fertilisers and supports sustainable farming practices. Cost SavingsReusing treated water and recovering valuable materials from wastewater, allows industries to cut down on water and resource costs. Advanced waste water systems are also proven to be more energy-efficient, which helps reduce overall operational expenses. Managing Wastewater ResponsiblyWastewater management involves cutting down water usage, maximising recycling efforts, and handling waste responsibly. The National Waste Management Strategy (NWMS) guides South Africa in addressing its growing waste challenges, driven by urbanisation and increasing waste complexity. Adopting a sustainable approach, rooted in the waste hierarchy of reduction, re-use, and recycling, helps businesses meet regulatory standards while contributing to environmental progress and a greener economy. Companies following the NWMS tackle waste sufficiently and support long-term ecological goals. Conclusion: Why Choose NuWater?In need of advanced wastewater solutions? Then you will find NuWater’s systems viable. They are designed to help you reduce waste, recycle water, and manage resources more effectively. We understand that every business has unique needs, which is why we offer flexible, scalable options to suit any industry. Our advanced industrial wastewater technology makes it happen. Contact us today to learn about compliant wastewater treatment. |
About NuWater Water Treatment
NuWater is a smart water treatment solutions company. We have evolved from a dynamic new start-up to becoming industry leaders who are at the forefront of intelligent water treatment solutions. We provide real solutions, solutions that are sustainable, mobile, adaptable, resourceful and efficient. Solutions that are changing lives, communities, businesses, ecosystems, and environments for the better.
NuWater is your business partner when it comes to water treatment and liquid waste management. Our appetite for innovation and our constant drive to search for new, cutting edge, novel technologies ensures that we can meet the needs of our customers. We are a technology-led engineering company that designs, builds, finances, operates and maintains water treatment plants. Plants that treat contaminated water for the provision of high-quality drinking and industrial process water from almost any water source.