N₂O Science and Biology

The extent of N₂O formation in wastewater treatment is complex and depends on multiple factors. However, N₂O emissions from the biological treatment processes can be very significant. Therefore, modern wastewater treatment plants face a challenge to manage the emission of N₂O to the atmosphere. Although a relatively small amount of N₂O is released to the atmosphere, it contributes significantly to the climate impact from wastewater treatment.

Therefore, wastewater treatment plants need to be aware of the N₂O science and biology. Hence, WWTPs must include N₂O in the total climate footprint and seek to reduce the emissions. However, the impact from N₂O varies significantly from plant to plant and during the season. This means that the use of standard values is inappropriate to estimate the impact of N₂O. In conclusion, if you want to be able to calculate and manage emissions and climate impact from N₂O, you need to measure it.