Wastewater Quality Assessment at Amarah Sewage Treatment Plant: Implications for Agricultural Use and Environmental Safety

Abstract

This study examines the quality of treated wastewater from the Amarah Sewage Treatment Plant (ASTP) in Iraq for potential agricultural use and compares it to the water quality standards of Iraq, Egypt, and the USA. The effluent was analyzed over a five-month period for various parameters, including pH, Total Suspended Solids (TSS), Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), and concentrations of ions, such as chloride (Cl-), sulfate (SO4-2), phosphate (PO43-), nitrate (NO3-), and ammonia (NH3). The findings showed that the pH and TDS measurements of the treated wastewater fell within the acceptable range, according to the regulations set by all three countries. The concentrations of Cl-, SO4-2, PO43-, NO3-, and NH3 in the treated wastewater were also within the acceptable limits set by the Iraqi standards. However, chloride and sulfate levels occasionally exceed permissible thresholds. The treated wastewater from ASTP is generally suitable for the irrigation of certain crops, but it is important to implement a monitoring and control system to ensure consistent water quality. Finally, investments are needed to improve treatment processes and establish educational programs for farmers to enhance their understanding of proper wastewater usage. These measures are crucial for protecting public health and conserving water resources, particularly in regions facing water scarcity.