Lagooning

Lagooning

Lagooning is a natural technique for treating wastewater (used water that needs purification) through the use of artificial basins or lagoons, which simulate a natural ecosystem. In these lagoons, water is treated through biological and physical processes thanks to the combined action of microorganisms, aquatic plants and solar exposure.

Process –
Sedimentation: The solid particles suspended in the water settle on the bottom of the lagoon.
Biological degradation: The microorganisms present in the water degrade the organic matter, transforming it into less polluting compounds.
Natural filtration: Aquatic plants absorb nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus, thus reducing the risk of eutrophication (excessive enrichment of nutrients that leads to the proliferation of algae and suffocation of aquatic fauna).
Oxidation: The oxygen present on the surface favors the decomposition of organic substances by aerobic bacteria.

Ecological Benefits –
Lagooning is mostly used in rural areas or where it is not cost-effective to build traditional purification plants. The ecological benefits of lagooning are many, including:
– Natural and Sustainable Purification: lagooning uses natural processes such as sedimentation, organic decomposition and absorption by plants to remove pollutants from water. This approach reduces the use of chemicals and energy needed in mechanized purification systems, reducing the environmental impact.
– Protection of Biodiversity: lagoons created for wastewater treatment can become habitats for local flora and fauna, such as birds, amphibians and insects. This favors the conservation of biodiversity, especially in wetlands, where ecosystems can thrive in the presence of clean water and nutrients.
– Reduction of Greenhouse Gas Emissions: conventional purification plants require energy to operate, often generated by fossil fuels, contributing to the emission of greenhouse gases. Lagooning, by exploiting natural processes, has a much lower energy impact and, consequently, reduces the carbon footprint associated with wastewater purification.
– Reuse of Resources: the water purified through lagooning can be reused for agricultural purposes, such as irrigation of fields, reducing the demand for drinking water. In addition, the sludge that accumulates at the bottom of the lagoons can be used as a natural fertilizer, closing the nutrient cycle and reducing the need for chemical fertilizers.
– Reduction of Groundwater Pollution: lagooning helps reduce the risk of contamination of groundwater, as it acts as a natural barrier against the uncontrolled flow of wastewater. Sediments and microorganisms filter and retain dangerous substances, preventing them from reaching underground water reserves.
– Improved Water Quality in Watercourses: Wastewater treated with lagooning, once reintroduced into watercourses, is much less polluting than untreated or conventionally treated wastewater. This helps improve water quality in surrounding rivers, lakes and wetlands, preserving aquatic ecosystems.
– Low Energy and Maintenance Costs: Since lagooning is based on natural biological processes, it requires less energy than conventional plants. Maintenance is also less expensive, since nature itself contributes to maintaining the functionality of the plant.
In short, lagooning is an environmentally sustainable solution for wastewater purification that helps protect ecosystems, reduces the use of energy and chemicals, and promotes biodiversity. It is often used in rural areas or small communities, where it may be preferable to more complex treatment systems.