The performance of Biofiltro at Kaka Point
Annual Conference
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In a world-first application of Chilean technology, Clutha District Council constructed a trial Biofiltro plant to further treat the Kaka Point oxidation pond effluent before its discharge to the sea. The context of the consenting environment for the Kaka Point and other treated sewage discharges in the Clutha District produced some pressure on the Council to find an affordable solution for its urban communities so that their viability would not be threatened, while meeting enhanced environmental standards.
This context is described and the potential cost and other advantages of Biofiltro identified as the drivers for the decision to build the plant. Its performance is described and the effluent quality produced compared to the consent limits now in place for the discharge. While some aspects of performance still require attention, overall it has been good enough to enable the Council to commit to building four more plants.
The conclusion is reached that Biofiltro is an affordable and appropriate solution for the further treatment of oxidation pond effluent in the Clutha District context.