Managing Phosphorus for Better Water Quality
- sgwasa
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
Butner, NC. May 19, 2025 - Phosphorus is a naturally occurring element that plays an important role in aquatic ecosystems. When phosphorus particles enter water systems in high concentrations, often through runoff or discharge, they can contribute to water quality issues. Increased phosphorus levels lead to excessive algae growth, which can reduce oxygen levels in water bodies and disrupt aquatic life.
One of the resulting challenges is algal blooms, which are intensified by thermal stratification, a condition where water layers form due to temperature differences. Stratification limits water circulation, trapping nutrients like phosphorus in lower layers and creating conditions that further support algae growth when temperatures rise.
SGWASA has worked collaboratively with Enviromix over the past several years to evaluate and improve key water and wastewater treatment technologies. This partnership included a case study at the SGWASA Wastewater Treatment Plant that focused on Enhanced Biological Phosphorus Removal (EBPR). This process has been shown to target phosphorus more efficiently. (Elger, 2023) (Zhang & Liu, 2014)
Enviromix produced a video detailing this project, highlighting how the implementation of EBPR led to consistent phosphorus removal and notable reductions in energy, operational, maintenance, and chemical costs. The success of this collaboration was recognized nationally: Enviromix received an industry award in 2022 and presented SGWASA's joint case study at the Water Environment Federation’s Technical Exhibition and Conference in 2023.
Posted on 5/19/25 by the South Granville Water and Sewer Authority
Krystle Lee, PIO/Board Secretary/Webmaster
(919) 575-3367
Cited Works:
Elger, S. (2023, September 22). Enhanced fermentation: An effective approach to phosphorus removal. Wastewater Digest. https://www.wwdmag.com/wastewater-treatment/article/33010949/enhanced-fermentation-an-effective-approach-to-phosphorus-removal
Zhang, T., & Liu, W. (2014). Enhanced fermentation: An effective approach to phosphorus removal. Environmental Science & Technology, 48(3), 1646–1655. https://doi.org/10.1021/es403227p
This video is based on information provided by Enviromix and is intended for informational purposes only. The information presented and statements expressed are those of the presenter(s) and may not necessarily reflect the official stance of SGWASA or any affiliated entities. For further information, please consult directly with Enviromix or other industry experts.
