WASTEWATER TREATMENT AND RECYCLING

ABSTRACT This study examines wastewater treatment's role in addressing environmental challenges posed by untreated wastewater. The primary aim is to assess the physicochemical properties and heavy metal content in treated and untreated wastewater samples, to identify effective treatment methodologies. Wastewater samples were collected from a fish pond in Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria, and subjected to preliminary treatments to remove insoluble materials, followed by primary and secondary treatments using a fabricated water treatment system. The residue's mineral composition was analyzed using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry, revealing substantial concentrations of nitrogen (21.30 mg/100g), phosphorus (18.75 mg/100g), and potassium (10.35 mg/100g). Additionally, a water culture experiment demonstrated enhanced plant growth with treated wastewater, affirming its suitability for agricultural use. The results indicate that treated wastewater, with a slightly alkaline pH of 8.2 and minimal magnesium content (0.013 mg/L), meets the quality standards for non-potable applications, such as irrigation. The study underscores the potential of treated wastewater as a nutrient source for plants, promoting growth and offering an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic fertilizers. However, continuous monitoring is recommended to mitigate risks associated with long-term wastewater application, such as heavy metal accumulation and microbial contamination. Further research is advised to optimize treatment processes, ensuring wastewater can be safely reused across various agricultural and industrial settings, thereby enhancing water sustainability.