Researchers at Stony Brook University have crafted an affordable solution to improve aging septic systems on Long Island, addressing the critical issue of toxic nitrogen leaking into groundwater. This problem not only affects drinking water but also harms local streams, rivers, and bays.
Lead researcher Thomas Varley shared that their innovation involves a prototype designed to fit into existing tanks. This unique chamber, filled with wood chips, effectively strips excess nitrogen from wastewater before it can escape into the ground.
“What comes out of our septic systems goes directly into the ground,” Varley explained. “This leads to pollution that causes algae blooms and fish kills.” High nitrogen levels have been linked to environmental issues, such as diminished oxygen in water, which is dangerous for aquatic life.
This new system outperforms current models available, removing nearly 10 milligrams more nitrogen than leading tanks. To put this in context, traditional septic systems can leak up to 80 milligrams of nitrogen per liter, while newer low-nitrogen designed systems in Suffolk County are capped at 19 milligrams per liter. In contrast, the Stony Brook prototype has consistently tested below 10 milligrams per liter.
Suffolk County is home to around 360,000 septic tanks — about 75% of the county’s homes rely on them, contrasting sharply with Nassau County, where 90% are connected to sewer systems. If this innovative technology gains traction, it could significantly reduce the nitrogen leaking into the water supply across Long Island.
Beyond just cleaning the water, Varley emphasized the communal impact. “People often don’t realize how one home’s septic system can affect the larger ecosystem,” he said.
Conventional septic tanks treat waste through a straightforward process: solid waste settles, grease floats, and the remaining liquid flows out as effluent. The new system reuses the existing tank, saving homeowners from the need to dig up their property. It’s designed to be installed through a simple manhole cover.
In this prototype, wastewater moves into a treatment chamber, then into the wood chip-filled secondary chamber, where helpful bacteria work to eliminate nitrogen. This method addresses pollution right at its source.
County Executive Ed Romaine has expressed interest in the technology and is open to discussions on potential grants to promote the installation of these systems in the region. He stated, “My administration is dedicated to finding solutions for nitrogen issues affecting our waterways.”
Recent studies highlight the urgency of tackling nitrogen pollution. A report from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency notes that excess nitrogen in water bodies can lead to harmful algal blooms, with health risks for humans and wildlife. The introduction of this new septic technology could play a crucial role in safeguarding both public health and the environment.
In summary, the Stony Brook prototype presents a promising and practical solution to a pressing problem. It reflects a strong commitment to improving Long Island’s water quality and protecting its natural resources for future generations.
Source link
Long Island,Metro,biology,poop,stony brook university,suffolk county
