Wastewater treatment typically involves primary, secondary, and tertiary stages:
Primary Treatment: This stage involves the physical removal of large solids and debris. It reduces the biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) and suspended solids in the wastewater. Secondary Treatment: This biological process uses microorganisms to break down organic matter. It significantly reduces BOD and organic pollutants. Tertiary Treatment: This advanced stage further purifies the water, removing nutrients, residual solids, and specific contaminants such as pharmaceuticals and heavy metals.