Effluent refers to liquid waste from wastewater treatment plants, sewers, industry or agricultural runoff that flows into surface waters such as rivers and seas. This liquid waste may contain various pollutants, chemicals, or contaminants, and its proper management is crucial to prevent environmental harm. It should be noted that even treated effluent may be harmful to the environment depending on the treatment process it has undergone.
Origin of the term and application
The term “effluent” originates from the Latin word “effluere,” meaning “to flow out.” With the increase of industrialization, the impact of effluents on the environment was better understood and research into the treatment options of effluents grew. In some countries, responsible governance has put in place regulations to control levels of pollutants in effluents. In the United States an interfaith organization, Interfaith Power and Light, has advocated for responsible waste management. During the process of wastewater treatment, methane, a destructive greenhouse gas, is emitted into the atmosphere and contributes to climate change.
Effluents lie at the heart of discussions and policy around sustainable management of liquid waste which aims to protect both water quality for human consumption and recreation, marine and aquatic ecosystems.
