Industry professionals now have access to a new Water Research Australia factsheet, “Enhancing Wastewater Treatment and Reducing Emissions: Utilising High-Purity Oxygen in a Circular Hydrogen Economy.” The resource presents a fresh approach to wastewater treatment, emphasising the environmental and economic benefits of integrating high-purity oxygen produced alongside green hydrogen.
Given rising environmental pressures like population growth, climate change, and urbanisation, conventional wastewater treatment—responsible for 1.3% of global greenhouse gas emissions—faces increasing demand and complexity. Pure oxygen plays a crucial role in enhancing treatment efficiency and emission reduction but is often prohibitively costly. The factsheet explores a more sustainable solution: pairing green hydrogen generation with wastewater treatment facilities, allowing co-produced oxygen to be used effectively rather than wasted.
This approach also includes treating recycled water for hydrogen production, which reduces reliance on freshwater sources and enables renewable energy use, cost savings, and new revenue streams.
While the use of high-purity oxygen presents certain challenges—such as pH balancing and effects on nitrification—continued research and pilot programs are crucial to fully realise its potential. By advancing these integrated treatment methods, the water sector can make strides toward achieving sustainable and effective wastewater management, supporting broader emissions reduction and circular economy goals.
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