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Project: BluElephant Decentralized Wastewater Treatment
With only 38% of Palestinians connected to a sewage system, untreated wastewater presents severe health and environmental risks. In collaboration with World Waternet through the Blue Deal Programme, the BluElephant (BE) system a decentralized wastewater treatment solution can offer an innovative and energy-efficient alternative for wastewater management in the region.
Quantifying the Impact
The BluElephant system is projected to process 5 to 6 m³ per day. This results in the generation of 32.76 CAPs over five years, representing 32,756 m³ of improved water footprint. The treatment process significantly reduces Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) and nitrogen levels, ensuring safer water reuse. The cost per CAP is €3,767.89, reflecting infrastructure investment and maintenance costs.
Social and Environmental Co-Benefits
- Public Health Benefits: Reduces exposure to wastewater contamination.
- Energy Efficiency: Solar-powered operations lower carbon footprint.
- Economic Development: Supports wastewater testing and management jobs.
Looking Ahead
Decentralized wastewater treatment can play a critical role in regions lacking central sewage infrastructure. Scaling up the BluElephant model could enhance wastewater management across Palestinian communities and other parts in the world, promoting sustainability and resilience. Attracting private funding, using the Water Footprint Compensation, could accelerate this upscaling.