Good question, Trudi. The ...
Published by Iouri Vaisman, IVS Pty Ltd - Director
Good question, Trudi.
The plastic pollution has become a big PROBLEM It is also the most VISIBLE problem - as you can often see it floating in the waterways and bays. There are also other pollutants that cause problems like sediment, nitrogen and phosphorus - but those are less VISIBLE even though they also create BIG problems with our waterways. Anyway, here are my thoughts on the plastic pollution control measures:
- Both structural and non structural measures should be employed
- Structural measures could be Gross Pollutant Traps (GPT) on stormwater outlets to the waterways (these devices capture the rubbish flowing with stormwater)
- Non structural measures could comprise education, policies, fines for littering, TV advertisements
- Combine Structural with Non Structural - Those GPT's are cleaned typically three - four times a year - invite general public (especially schools) to those clean outs - let them see what the GPT has captured/prevented from polluting the environment
As this could be a big program - implement it in stages - start with the most polluted / known problem sites - once it works at a local level - other stakeholders are more likely to commit
If you need more information on various types of GPT's or other aspects - happy to assist.
Regards,
Iouri
2 Comments
Excellent presentation of pro action construct. Most communities do have storm drain inlet guards. But their budgets call for twice a year collection and cleaning. Education and community composting efforts would be an economical and very pro environmental way of teaching people the natural flow of nature beats anything man can come up with.
The out flow may be a similar cost consideration. Still needs to be done. But if inflow is done well the twice a year out flow cleaning would be much less and possibly not needed if inflow is successful. Helping people understand the science of organic matter and inorganic matter in the composting process would eliminate some of the fear factor doom and gloom. Having people working on a pro action instead of their poor habits will accomplish much more in a shorter amount of time. The more we pull in the same direction the more they will follow.
Published by Guy McGowen, President/CEO/Chief Science Officer
any case studies you see in Australia that are working? Yes, if you have info on effective GPTs please post !
Published by Trudi Schifter, CEO and Founder AquaSPE
1 Comment
Hi Trudi,
The GPT's models will vary depending on geographical location. Plastic typically floats on surface so no need to use the BEST technology but one that is "fits for purpose". A few links to AUS GPT suppliers:
http://www.rocla.com.au/CDS-Units.php
Will try to find a few case studies and post.
Regards,
Iouri
Published by Iouri Vaisman, IVS Pty Ltd - Director