Diseño de un sistema de tratamiento de aguas residuales bajo el enfoque de la GIRH en la parroquia Puela, cantón Penipe

Abstract

Abstract:The rural parish of Puela, located in Penipe cantón, faces significant limitations in sewerage and sanitation coverage.The widespread use of deteriorated septic tanks has resulted in unpleasant odors, environmental pollution, and potential public health risks. This study aimed to design a wastewater treatment system base don the Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) approach. A mixed- methods approach was adopted, combining applied, descriptive, documentary, and field research. The methodology included community surveysm, a territorial assessment, stakholder análisis, physicochemical and microbiological characterization of wastewater, a review of applicable regulations, and a multicriteria evaluation of treatment alternatives. The results revealed complete reliance on septic tanks and the presence of surfactants, sulfides,and fecal coliforms in the wastewater. For a design population of 501 inhabitants, the calculated average flow rate Qmedio was 0.56 L/s, white the peak flow rate QPunta was 3.17 L/s. The proposed treatment system consists of an inlet channel, a manually cleaned bas screen, a grit chamber, an Imhoff tank, constructed wetlands, and sludge drying beds. Theoretical treatment performance estimates indicated an 80 % reduction in five-day biochemical oxygen demand BDO5, a 75% reduction in suspended solids, and reduction in fecal coliforms and surfactants, in compliance with the máximum permissible limits.