Which treatment method is often used for removing excess nutrients from wastewater?

Biological treatment is recognized for its effectiveness in removing excess nutrients, particularly nitrogen and phosphorus, from wastewater. This process utilizes microorganisms that naturally consume these nutrients as part of their metabolic activities.

During biological treatment, such as activated sludge processes or constructed wetlands, the conditions are optimized to promote the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms that thrive on organic material and nutrients. As these microorganisms digest organic matter, they also uptake nitrogen and phosphorus, thus reducing their concentrations in the effluent.

Biological treatment methods are preferred for nutrient removal because they are generally cost-effective and environmentally friendly, promoting sustainability in wastewater management. This biological process can be further enhanced through various techniques, like nitrification and denitrification, for more efficient nutrient removal, which aligns especially well with regulatory requirements aimed at protecting water quality.

In contrast, chemical oxidation relies on chemicals to break down contaminants and does not specifically target nutrients. Nutrient recovery focuses on extracting nutrients for reuse, rather than removing them from the wastewater. Thermal treatment, such as incineration, generally deals with solid waste and does not remove nutrients effectively from liquid wastewater streams. Therefore, the selection of biological treatment stands out as the most suitable method for nutrient removal in wastewater treatment.