Protecting Our Rivers Through Wastewater Management

​The Grootvadersbosch Conservancy is dedicated to preserving the health of our rivers, particularly those flowing through the Grootvadersbosch Conservancy. Recently, we had the opportunity to visit the Barrydale Wastewater Treatment Works, engaging with the Swellendam Municipality, Zutari, and Breede-Olifants Catchment Management Agency.

​The visit allowed us to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced in managing wastewater systems.

Tour of Barrydale's Waste Water Treatment Works

​Our mission is to raise awareness and educate our communities about the critical links between wastewater treatment and river protection. We learned that while wastewater treatment facilities play a crucial role in managing the water we use, every individual can contribute to reducing the strain on these systems and, in turn, protect our rivers and oceans.

How You Can Make a Difference

1. Option for Biodegradable Products: Choose eco-friendly, biodegradable housecleaning products over conventional chemicals. This small change reduces the number of harmful substances entering our wastewater system.
2. Be Mindful of Your Purchases: Evaluate the necessity of chemical products before purchasing. Simple alternatives like soap, lemon juice, or vinegar can replace many commercial cleaners.
3. Reduce Chemical Use: If possible, minimise the use of pesticides and herbicides in your garden. They often end up in the wastewater system and can be harmful to aquatic ecosystems.
4. Proper Disposal of Pharmaceuticals: Instead of flushing unused medications, return them to the pharmacy for proper disposal.
5. Avoid Flushing Solids: Never flush items like nappies, female hygiene products, earbuds, or cigarette butts. These materials can cause blockages in the sewer system, leading to overflows and contamination.
6. Dispose of Fats, Oils, and Grease Properly: These substances can block pipes. Dispose of them in the trash after soaking them up with paper towels.
7. Dispose of Used Car Oil Correctly: Take used oil to a mechanic for proper disposal rather than pouring it down stormwater drains.
8. Keep Stormwater Drains Clean: Don’t dispose of pet waste, garden clippings, or other refuse in stormwater drains. These contaminants flow directly into our rivers and oceans. Consider using the waste to make compost.
9. Manage Stormwater Runoff: Direct rainwater runoff from paved surfaces and roofs onto vegetated areas to reduce runoff and contamination.

​Exploring Nature-Based Solutions
We are excited to collaborate with the municipality on innovative, nature-based solutions for wastewater treatment. These include bioremediation techniques, constructed wetlands, and biofiltration systems. Constructed polishing wetlands mimic natural ecosystems, leveraging plants and microorganisms to remove pollutants through biological, physical, and chemical processes. Not only do these systems treat wastewater, but they also enhance biodiversity, provide habitats, and improve water quality in surrounding areas.

Stay tuned as we continue to explore and implement these promising solutions.

Your efforts, combined with these advanced methods, will play a vital role in safeguarding our rivers and ensuring a healthier environment for all.

From The Grootvadersbosch Conservancy Team:
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For more tips on eco-friendly cleaning alternatives, visit: Water Stories - Take Action