What is it?
Stormwater and street sweeper wastes are two distinct types of environmental runoff that can carry pollutants and contaminants. Understanding these terms involves examining the nature of stormwater, the role of street sweepers and the potential environmental implications associated with their waste streams:
- Stormwater - Refer to the runoff generated during weather events, such as rain or snowmelt, that flows over impervious surfaces like roads, parking lots, and rooftops. Unlike water from sanitary sewers, stormwater is not treated before entering natural water bodies, making it susceptible to contamination from various sources.
- Composition - Stormwater can carry a diverse range of pollutants, including sediment, nutrients (such as phosphorus and nitrogen), heavy metals, oil and grease, bacteria, and other substances from urban and industrial areas. When reintroduced into rivers, lakes, or oceans, these pollutants can have detrimental effects on water quality and aquatic ecosystems.
How we treat waste from stormwater drain cleaning and street sweeping:
Managing stormwater is essential to prevent water pollution. That's why stormwater management programs exist, including strategies that utilise retention basins, green infrastructure, and best management practices to reduce pollutant impact. Regulations often require municipalities and industries to implement stormwater control measures to protect water quality.
