Author(s)

N M Ismail

Abstract

A study has been conducted to arrive at the most cost-effective and environmentally acceptable solution to the discharge of partially treated wastewater into coastal wetlands, lakes and offshore waters, where funding for complete conventional treatment plans has either been severed or inadequate. Field data of water-quality parameters for effluents discharged out of wastewater oxidation ponds and constructed wetlands have been reviewed and analyzed. The case studies reported herein are those of natural treatment plants in the USA (California) and in the Middle East (Jordan). The results of the extensive work conducted at the natural treatment plant in Jordan and on the effluents discharged into the Zerka river indicate the viability of using treated wastewater for irrigation in the Jordan valley. The findings of the study suggest an appropriate and alternative solution to Alexandria’s current disposal of primary-treated wastewater into Lake Maryout. The recommended scheme comprises an integrated system of oxidation ponds and a constructed wetland in the Maryout Valley prior to disposal in the lake or reuse for irrigation. This integrated system would provide a solution to cope with water scarcity and river basin management.

Keywords