Perspectives and aspects on what we call sustainability, especially with respect to a demand for a compact wastewater treatment plant configuration
The concept” Sustainability” has become an indeed demanding metaphor within society. However, without a deeper understanding and more accurate use of the word it may very well, by and by, become obsolete. In this paper the question is focused on the development of wastewater treatment. Some “curial” demands on a more specific approach to sustainability are presented in this paper: 1) The never- ending needs for improvement of the treatment needs with respect to, inter alia, occurring complex organic polluting agents. 2) The demands for efficient and compact treatment methods. 3) The needs for improved, relevant, and affordable analysis methods; 4) To occupy an accepted, limited area for the plant; 5) The social acceptance of the water environment protection. 6) An increased need for reuse of the used and treated water. At first a short historic perspective is enlightening these demands. In addition to this, a few other relevant points are discussed to demonstrate the urgent needs for the enhancement of the water environment protection in a longer perspective.