Journal article
The development and operation of low-cost reedbeds for greywater treatment in Costa Rica, Central America
Recent Advances in Animal Nutrition in Australia, pp.395-407
2005
Abstract
In rural Costa Rica it is widespread practice to separate greywater from blackwater (toilet water), with only the blackwater connected to a septic system. The flow of untreated greywater directly into the environment is a cause of substantial environmental contamination and poses a significant health risk Low cost reedbeds for the treatment of domestic greywater in Monteverde, Costa Rica were developed in order to achieve affordable, low maintenance systems. A range of design and installation modifications relevant to the local environment were developed in order to achieve this objective as well as to meet the national guidelines for wastewater reuse. The use of PET plastic segments was found to be a viable alternative media to gravel and its potential as a readily available material which can significantly reduce the cost of reedbeds is described. This paper summarises the experience gained from over four years in terms of the design, installation, affordability, performance and maintenance of reedbeds for greywater treatment in the mountainous tropics of Central America.
Details
- Title
- The development and operation of low-cost reedbeds for greywater treatment in Costa Rica, Central America
- Authors/Creators
- S. Dallas (Author/Creator)G. Ho (Author/Creator)K. Mathew (Author/Creator)
- Publication Details
- Recent Advances in Animal Nutrition in Australia, pp.395-407
- Publisher
- University of New England
- Identifiers
- 991005541173007891
- Murdoch Affiliation
- Environmental Technology Centre
- Language
- English
- Resource Type
- Journal article
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