6.3.1 : Wastewater treatment
Wastewater Treatment
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) has made significant strides in wastewater treatment, focusing on sustainable and innovative methods. UTM’s approach includes the use of advanced technologies like the Activated Sludge Process (ASP), Membrane Bioreactor (MBR), and Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor (MBBR). These technologies are designed to effectively treat municipal wastewater, which is typically low-strength, by employing both aerobic and anaerobic systems. The integration of these systems helps in removing emerging pollutants that conventional methods might miss, thereby enhancing the overall quality of treated water. A notable advancement is UTM’s collaboration with the Nagoya Institute of Technology on the SATREPS-POME 2023 project. This initiative aims to revolutionize palm oil mill effluent treatment by leveraging material innovation to produce sustainable energy and recover valuable resources. The project combines diverse technologies such as biogas production, microbial fuel cells, and water reclamation processes. By focusing on eco-friendly solutions, UTM is addressing the dual challenges of effective wastewater treatment and resource recovery. Additionally, UTM has pioneered the development of a rock aquifer tubewell, becoming the first university in Malaysia to do so. This 158-meter deep well provides an alternative clean water source with a capacity of one million liters per day. This initiative not only reduces dependency on existing water resources but also offers potential cost savings and revenue generation through water bottling. Such projects underscore UTM’s commitment to innovative solutions in water management. Moreover, UTM is exploring microalgae-enabled wastewater treatment as a sustainable strategy. This process involves bioremediation, where microorganisms convert contaminants into harmless by-products like carbon dioxide and water. The use of microalgae in this context is particularly advantageous due to their ability to recover important nutrients while maintaining ecological balance. By integrating these diverse approaches, UTM is setting a benchmark for environmentally friendly and efficient wastewater management practices.
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) has implemented significant advancements in wastewater treatment, focusing on sustainable and innovative methods. The university utilizes advanced technologies like the Activated Sludge Process (ASP), Membrane Bioreactor (MBR), and Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor (MBBR) to effectively treat municipal wastewater. These systems integrate aerobic and anaerobic processes, enhancing the removal of pollutants that conventional methods might miss. UTM’s collaboration on the SATREPS-POME 2023 project exemplifies its commitment to eco-friendly solutions, aiming to transform palm oil mill effluent treatment through sustainable energy production and resource recovery. Additionally, UTM has developed a rock aquifer tubewell, providing an alternative clean water source with a capacity of one million liters per day. The university is also exploring microalgae-enabled bioremediation, which offers advantages in nutrient recovery and ecological balance. These initiatives highlight UTM’s dedication to innovative water management and environmental conservation.
