2 research outputs found
Wastewater management in developing countries: Bolivia case studies
Wastewater management in developing countries still is a challenge, especially in small towns. The aim
of this study is to understand technical and social factors related to management. Thus, the context
surrounding the performance of six treatment plants in rural areas of Cochabamba, Bolivia were
investigated: three small treatment plants (2000-10000 p.e.; flow>5L/s) and three very small treatment
plants (<2000 p.e.; flow<5L/s). Performance of the plants was measured based on the removal of TSS,
BOD5 and Fecal Coliforms. Management data was collected through semi-structured interviews with
water association managers and users. Results found that inappropriate design and type of technology,
lack of operational expertise and lack of financial resources were the main factors related to low
performance. Moreover, lack of financial resources is linked to the awareness of users on the importance
of having the service and willingness to pay for their adequate functioning
Wastewater management in small towns – understanding the failure of small treatment plants in Bolivia
<p>Wastewater management in developing countries is a challenge, especially in small towns with rapid population growth. This study aims at assessing the performance and management of five treatment plants (TPs) in rural areas of Cochabamba, Bolivia. Pollutants’ concentrations, wastewater flows, hydraulic and organic loads and hydraulic retention times were determined in three small treatment plants (2000–10,000 population equivalent [p.e.]; flow > 432 m<sup>3</sup>/d) and two very small treatment plants (<2000 p.e.; flow < 432 m<sup>3</sup>/d). The performance assessment was based on operational parameters, treatment efficiency and effluent quality. Management data were collected through semi-structured interviews with managers of local water associations. The results support that the poor performance of the TPs is due to lack of operational expertise and financial resources for adequate operation and maintenance (O&M). Additionally, effective treatment was affected by the type of technology used and whether the plant design included plans for O&M with available resources. This study contributes to a better understanding of actual operating conditions of wastewater TPs in small towns, thus providing needed information regarding technology selection, design, implementation and operation.</p