Glossary

Deutsch: Abwasser / Português: Águas residuais / Français: Eaux usêes / Italiano: Acque reflue

Wastewater, also written as waste water, is any water that has been adversely affected in quality by anthropogenic influence. Municipal wastewater is usually conveyed in a combined sewer or sanitary sewer, and treated at a wastewater treatment plant.

In an industrial or manufacturing context, wastewater refers to the water that is generated as a byproduct of industrial processes and that contains various pollutants, including chemicals, heavy metals, and organic matter.

Here are some examples of industrial wastewater:

1. Manufacturing processes: Many manufacturing processes, such as metal finishing, textiles, and paper production, generate wastewater as a byproduct.

2. Power generation: Power plants that use coal, oil, or natural gas produce wastewater from cooling towers and other processes.

3. Mining: Mining operations generate wastewater from ore processing and other activities.

4. Agriculture: Agricultural operations generate wastewater from animal husbandry, irrigation, and other activities.

5. Food and beverage production: The food and beverage industry generates wastewater from processes such as washing, cooking, and sanitizing equipment.

6. Pharmaceuticals: The pharmaceutical industry generates wastewater from the production of drugs and other chemicals.

7. Oil and gas: The oil and gas industry generates wastewater from drilling, production, and refining operations.

These are just a few examples of industrial wastewater. The treatment and disposal of wastewater is a major concern in the industrial and manufacturing context, as it can have significant environmental impacts if not properly managed. Companies are required by law to properly treat and dispose of their wastewater to prevent contamination of water supplies and harm to the environment.