Effluent streams of domestic origin contain nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) that are essential nutrients for the growth and metabolism of microbial population in biological wastewater treatment process. Uncontrolled discharge of nutrients to a confined body of water fosters aquatic growth of algae, hyacinths, etc., which adversely impacts the quality of the receiving water. An increasing number of states in the US have been implementing stringent effluent discharge regulations for N and P.
This paper will present a discussion of nutrient control technologies along with regulatory policy. It will be supported by two case studies on the steps taken and innovative technologies implemented to control N and P from wastewater treatment plants in the Chesapeake Bay and Great Lakes in the US.