Wait, we’re not done. That clear water still has nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus. Too much of those in a river? It causes algae to grow like crazy, suffocating fish. So we add a few more steps depending on the plant.
Some plants pass the water through sand filters. Others zap it with ultraviolet (UV) light to kill any remaining pathogens. A few brave plants even dose it with chlorine, then neutralize that chlorine so fish aren’t swimming in bleach. The goal? Water that’s clean enough to drink—but usually, it’s released into a river or ocean instead.
What is Sewage Treatment Plant and How does It Work