An overview of sustainable greywater treatment processes

¹ Department of Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering, Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti, 360101, Nigeria
² Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering Technology, University of Johannesburg, 2006, South Africa.
³ Department of Mechanical Engineering Science, University of Johannesburg, 2006, South Africa
⁴ Department of Mechanical and Construction Engineering, Northumbria University, Newcastle, United Kingdom

^* Corresponding Author: ikumapayi.omolayo@gmail.com

Abstract

Greywater refers to all domestic wastewater generated, with the exception of sewage. Greywater exhibits a varied composition that mirrors the lifestyle of the residents and the chemicals they utilize within their households. The environment is favourable for the proliferation of bacteria, indicating that it has to be treated before being reused. The treatment objectives also include the removal of organic pollutants, heavy metals, diseases, and other microorganisms. The predominant approach for treating greywater is to pass it via biofilm systems. Using mulch beds in close proximity to crops or trees is a viable alternative to irrigating the entire region. The basic methods of grey water treatment are filtration, coagulation, reverse osmosis, and adsorption, and the energy and resource requirements of the treatment systems differ. They often rise as the level of treatment rises, leading to a bias for natural systems such as sand or fiber filters and built wetlands. These natural systems are more suitable for small-scale greywater treatment since they are more sustainable, eco-friendly, and low-cost.This review finds different approaches to redefine the perception of sustainable greywater management in order to provide assistance to both humans and agriculture.