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4.8 Forests as a Sink for Treated Effluent
Authors: G N Magesan, H WangPublication: NZIF Forestry Handbook, Volume Section 4 – Forests and the environment, pp 8, Dec 2023
Publisher: New Zealand Institute of Forestry
Abstract: In New Zealand, most sewage wastewater is treated to remove solids, pathogens and other contaminants. In many cases, the resulting effluent is discharged to waterways. Despite treatment, the effluents usually contain some nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, which may contribute to eutrophication of water bodies. Owing to increasing public awareness, cultural needs, and regulatory pressures to protect the environment, land application is becoming a popular option for managing sewage effluent. The Resource Management Act 1991 an approach to environmental management promoting sustainable management of natural and physical resources has brought together laws governing land, air, and water resources. From the Maori cultural point of view, mixing of human wastes with natural water is unacceptable, and hence such wastes should not go directly into receiving water. Although land application is a good option, in order to protect its international reputation, the New Zealand dairy industry has prohibited the disposal of human sewage effluent on dairy farms. This policy enhances the significance of applying such wastewater to forested land (Magesan & Wang 2003).