What is the acceptable sulfur dioxide level in mg/L in wastewater plant effluent?

The acceptable sulfur dioxide level in wastewater plant effluent is generally set to ensure that water discharged into the environment does not harm aquatic life or contribute to pollution. A level of 0.5 mg/L or less is established as a safe threshold to minimize the risk of toxicity to fish and other organisms in receiving waters.

Maintaining this level is critical for environmental protection, as sulfur dioxide can react with water to form sulfurous acid, which can lower the pH of water bodies and create inhospitable conditions for aquatic life. By adhering to this limit, wastewater treatment facilities can effectively safeguard water quality, prevent ecological damage, and comply with regulatory standards.

Higher levels of sulfur dioxide could lead to increased risk of harm to the environment, while lower thresholds may not reflect the practical operational capabilities of typical wastewater treatment processes. This balance assures that treated effluent meets both safety and environmental standards.