Why is nutrient removal significant in wastewater treatment?

Nutrient removal is significant in wastewater treatment primarily because it helps prevent eutrophication. Eutrophication occurs when excess nutrients, particularly nitrogen and phosphorus, are introduced into water bodies, often as a result of effluent from wastewater treatment plants. This nutrient overload can lead to excessive growth of algae, known as algal blooms, which can deplete oxygen levels in the water and create dead zones where aquatic life cannot survive.

By effectively removing these nutrients during the treatment process, wastewater treatment facilities help maintain the natural balance of ecosystems in receiving waters. This not only protects aquatic organisms and biodiversity but also preserves recreational water quality and overall environmental health. Therefore, the focus on nutrient removal is a fundamental aspect of modern wastewater treatment practices aimed at safeguarding both human and ecological health.