WASTE WATER TREATMENT ANALYSIS, TECHNOLOGY, AND CHALLENGES IN SWEDEN

Wastewater treatment is a technique used to reclaim and reuse wastewater for other productive uses. This reduces the demand for freshwater resources, and further enhance conservation of aquatic habitat, and sustainable utilization of water resources. Concerns for wastewater in Sweden began in the 1930s with only mechanical treatment but efficiently implemented in the 1960s as a result of significant eutrophication observed in open waters such as the Baltic Sea. Although prevailing wastewater treatment is fairly efficient, there is need to upgrade and improve existing treatment facilities to mitigate potentially degradation of hygienic conditions due to the estimated increase in the Swedish population. Nonetheless, observed increased in the concentration of nitrogen and phosphorus in the marine environment despite significant measures and investment in wastewater treatment facilities, calls for a review of the existing facilities to identify areas that requires further improvements. This paper will therefore, review prevailing wastewater treatment in Sweden, the technology used and possible challenges encountered. Small scale treatment of wastewater practiced for dwelling not connected to municipal treatment plant will be discussed including sludge management. In addition, background information relating to potential technology to meet future wastewater treatment will be highlighted.