Efficient wastewater treatment and re-use at the University of Balamand

Abstract

The purpose of this thesis is to study the efficiency of the Wastewater Treatment Plant at University of Balamand (UOB) (Kelhat, North Lebanon) in producing an effluent suitable for re-use in irrigation. This is done by conducting an experimental work based on measuring several water quality parameters classified into physical, chemical, and microbiological parameters. These results are then compared with the standards adopted by the Lebanese Ministry of Environment (MoE) for discharge into sewerage and into surface/sea water. This work also aims at finding relevant relations among the different parameters. The obtained results confirmed a good functioning of the UOB Treatment Plant along the studied period. Almost all the measured parameters were below the MoE Standards which proves that the effluent can be re-used for the irrigation of crops which are not for human consumption. In conclusion, this study revealed the importance of wastewater treatment and re-use in protecting the environment, the public health, and the water resources against shortage. It initiates as well further studies and experiments regarding the effect of the treated effluent and the sludge on crop growth.