An innovative laboratory scale unit was used to carry out UV photoinduced catalytic degradation of methyl 9 orange. For this purpose, the experimental system was made of a bottom and an upper reservoir (∼120 L each) which were connected by an inclined channel through which water was recirculated. TiO2 (Anatase) was deposited (∼10−2 mg/cm2) at the bottom of the connecting channel while the Methyl Orange solution was exposed to the UVB radiation (λ ≈ 300 nm) during its recirculation through the connecting channel. The unit was first characterized from both the hydrodynamic and the hydraulic points of view. Photodegradation kinetics were followed by UV−vis absorption measurements of the residual methyl orange solution concentration along time, and the synergic effect of the catalyst and the intensity of the UV radiation in promoting degradation of the substrate was demonstrated. The abatement efficiency of the UV/TiO2 system toward methyl orange was evaluated in the concentration range 0.3−8.5 mg/L. Kinetic patterns were described by first (or pseudofirst) order theoretical models up to the concentration of 0.7 mg/L, whereas at higher concentrations kinetic trends were better described by zero-order models independently from the substrate concentration in the liquid-phase. The proposed solution, after an upscale field investigation, may represent a valuable alternative to the methods conventionally used for the abatement of textile dyes from wastewater, that is, water clarification, reverse osmosis, activated carbon sorption, and biosorption.

The Apulian Region, characterized by average rainfalls of less than 600 mm is historically a water-deficient area with supplies heavily depending on importations from neighbouring areas to meet domestic, agricultural and industrial needs (Bonomo et al, 1999). Crete is characterized by less than 500 mm of rainfall and has among the highest average temperature in Europe. (Gikas and Tchobanoglous, 2009). This paper reports the Apulian and Greek experience in utilization of wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) effluent for agricultural purposes. A research program aimed at determining a safe and cost-effective agricultural wastewater reuse protocol has been implemented by the Consorzio of Capitanata in cooperation with the local water Authority, Acquedotto Pugliese, (AQP S.p.A.) and Polytechnic of Bari. Within this study, experiments were conducted by Consorzio di Bonifica of Capitanata (North of Apulia) that aimed to verify the adequacy of the municipal WWTP treatment in the effluent application for agricultural purpose and to evaluate the variation in the soil chemistry composition and groundwater characteristics in the irrigated area. In Crete an experimental wastewater tests or survey has been also implemented. A survey of the installations waste water treatment plant for irrigation reuse in Apulia (South East of Italy) and in Crete, have been reported. Particularly, results in terms of wastewater quality “at the crop” have been reported. The objective of the present paper is to compare the results from Italian and Greek experiences on wastewater reuse and to suggest a common strategy for implementing a new policy for wastewater. As a consequence of the Italian and Greek field experience, following the irrigation period with treated wastewater, soil and groundwater characteristics have maintained a comparable qualitative state In the semi-arid regions such as Southern Italy, and Crete, the additional resources brought by wastewater reuse can bring significant advantages to agriculture (e.g. crop irrigation) and tourism (e.g. golf course irrigation). Several problems arise with respect to SST and BOD that we concur can be elevated parameters because of the tolerance shown by crops. It is suggested the improvement of the artificial groundwater recharge because this is becoming increasingly important in groundwater management and particularly where the conjunctive use of surface water and groundwater resources is planned.

Factors that impacts agricultural reuse are examined in the paper. The objective of this work is to assess the factors involved in agriculture reuse by presenting a comparison of three wastewater treatment plants used for food crop irrigation: Adelaide, South Australia; Foggia, South Italy and Monterey, California. An analysis of the driving forces for reuse, regulatory requirements, and other factors affecting the water reuse systems is described. A comparison of treatment technologies and costs is also performed including pretreatments, biological steps, filtration, sedimentation and disinfection options. As a consequence of global warming that has increased the frequency and severity of natural disasters like the drought, the impacts of climate change and seasonality is discussed in the paper. A possible scenario of the future trend for agriculture reuse including the influence of the increase in urban water use, the increase in salinity and the acceptability of products is lastly considered.

A comparison between model and experimental pilot-scale horizontal subsurface flow constructed wetland (HSFCW) located in Lecce (Apulia, South Italy) has been reported in the paper. The experiments were carried out in three constructed wetlands each with a planted area equal to 15 m2 and with water depth of 0.6 m. Tracer tests were conducted by single-shot injection of a dissolution of KBr into the inlet tubes of the beds. The objective of the study was to compare hydraulic performances in a pilot experiences and to evaluate the suitability of two-dimensional method for describing the hydraulic behaviour of the HSFCW. At the beginning of the experience and after 24 months the results show the variation of the hydraulic conductivity and a good correlation between model and physical data by modifying input parameters as a consequence of the clogging.

BTEX (Benzene, Toluene, Ethylbenzene and Xylenes) are commonly encountered pollutants. The focus of this present work is onthe removal of BTEX using pilot scale constructed wetlands (CWs). Experiment carried out in three similar pilot scale horizontal sub-surface flow constructed wetlands (HSFCWs) with area of 35 m2 (each), two of which were planted with different macrophytes (Phragmites australis and Typha latifolia), while an unplanted one was used as control. A number of hydraulic tests were carried out using lithium bromide as tracer, to assess the hydraulic residence time. Residence time distributions (RTDs) for the two CWs indicated that the Typha field was characterized by a void volume fraction (porosity) of 0.16 and exhibited more ideal plug flow behavior (Pe=29.7) compared with the Phragmites field (Pe = 26.7), which had similar porosity. The measured hydraulic residence times in the planted fields were 35.8, 36.7, and 34.1 h, for Typha, Phragmites and unplanted respectively, at wastewater flow rates equal to 1 m3/d. The observed percentage removal for BTEX ranged between 46 to 55 %. The average removal in the Phragmites field was5%,higher, than the Typha field and 23%, higher than the unplanted field. BTEX removal was primarily attributed to volatilization, however biodegradation played also a significant role.

A four-year research program has been carried out to the aim of evaluating the effectiveness of Cr and Ni removal from secondary effluent. Tests were performed in small-scale (10 l/h) and full-scale (150 m3/d) sub-surface flow (SSF) constructed wetlands (cws). Metals removal was also assessed as a function of increased clogging conditions that occur in the cws. Cr and Ni content were evaluated in sediments at various points and in plant tissues by sampling phragmites australis roots, stems, and leaves. Clogging was evaluated by measuring hydraulic conductivity at the same sampling points at the beginning and at the end of the experiment. Residence Time Distribution – RTD - curves were also assessed at the beginning and after 48 months by using lithium chloride as tracer. Plotted results showed an increased skewness in the RTD curves at the end of the experiment. Proportionality between increasing clogging conditions and sediment adsorption was observed, especially for nickel that was absorbed mainly in the roots.

Chromium (Cr) and Nickel (Ni) removal from secondary effluent has been evaluated in a four year research program to determine the effectiveness of Sub-Surface Flow (SSF) Constructed Wetlands (cw(s)). Tests were performed in small scale (10 l/h) and full scale (150 m(3)/d) SSF cw(s). Metals removal was also assessed as a function of increased clogging that occurred in the cw(s) over the course of the study. Cr and Ni content were evaluated in sediments at various locations along the flow path and in plant tissues by sampling Phragmites australis roots, stems and leaves. Clogging was evaluated by measuring hydraulic conductivity at the same sampling locations at the beginning and at the end of the experiment. Residence Time Distribution (RTD) curves were also assessed at the beginning and after 48 months; the skewness of the RTDs increased over this period. Proportionality between increasing clogging and sediment accumulation of metals was observed, especially for Ni. Adsorption to the original matrix and the accumulated sediment is a removal mechanism consistent with available data. (C) 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Composted organic materials release nitrogen at rates 1-3 % of total N/year and the leaching process can extend for many years. A model that will be able to predict the nitrogen remaining on compost is developed for estimating the need for nitrogen fertilizers to be applied again to support the growth of the vegetative cover. The aim of this work is to understand the effect of compost age on the extent and rates of nitrogen release by conducting detailed studies of one compost type at three different ages. The results will be used to construct a mathematical model of nitrogen remaining on compost following repeated storm events. After the experimental test results we can assume that Nitrogen content (%) and bulk density of compost increased with the increase in compost age. Total nitrogen released decreased with the increase in compost age. The three rain simulations (storms) performed on each of the three compost ages show that nitrogen release declined each day of the repeated daily storms. A first-order kinetics model can be used to estimate the amount of nitrogen remaining on compost after several storms.

Municipal solid waste management is not only a contemporary problem, but also an issue at world level. In detail, the tourist areas are more difficult to be managed. The dynamics of municipal solid waste production in tourist areas is affected by the addition of a significant amount of population equivalent during a few months. Consequences are seen in terms of the amount of municipal solid waste to be managed, but also on the quality of selective collection. In this article two case studies are analyzed in order to point out some strategies useful for a correct management of this problem, also taking into account the interactions with the sector of waste-toenergy. The case studies concern a tourist area in the north of Italy and another area in the south. Peak production is clearly visible during the year. Selective collection variations demonstrate that the tourists’ behavior is not adequate to get the same results as with the resident population.

The comparative effectiveness for hexavalent chromium reduction and removal from irrigation water, using three selected plant species (Phragmites australis, Salix viminalis, and Ailanthus altissima) planted in soil contaminated with hexavalent chromium, has been studied in the present work. The above plant species were irrigated, in a continuous mode, with water, contaminated with 10 mg/L of hexavalent chromium. Hexavalent chromium and total chromium have been measured in all plant tissues species and in the drainage water. Total chromium removal from water was ranging from 56 % (Phragmites) to 70 % (Salix). After 360 days of growth, the chromium content of the contaminated soil dropped from 70 (initial) to 32, 36, and 41 mg Cr/kg(dry soil), for Salix, Phragmites, and Ailanthus, respectively. Salix and Phragmites accumulated the highest amount of chromium in the roots (2,029 and 1,800 mg Cr/kg(dry tissue), respectively), compared with 358 mg Cr/kg(dry tissue) for Ailanthus roots. Most of chromium was found in trivalent form in all plant tissues. Ailanthus had the lowest affinity for CrVI reduction in the root tissues. Phragmites indicated the highest chromium translocation potential, from roots to stems, while Salix indicated the highest chromium translocation from roots to leaves. Toxicity effects, expressed as root growth rate inhibition, indicated that Salix is the most chromium-tolerant species, with Ailanthus in the antipode.

Municipal solid waste management is not only a contemporary problem but also an issue at world level. More in detail, the tourist areas are more difficult to be managed. The dynamics of municipal solid waste production in tourist areas is affected from the addition of a significant amount of population equivalent during few months. Consequences are seen in terms of amount of municipal solid waste to be managed, but also on the quality of selective collection. In this paper a case-study is analysed in order to point out some strategies useful for a correct management of the problem.

In this study two pilot scale Horizontal Subsurface Flow Constructed Wetlands (HSFCWs) near Lecce, Italy, planted with different macrophytes (Phragmites australis and Typha latifolia) and an unplanted control were assessed for their effectiveness in removing paracetamol. Residence time distributions (RTDs) for the two beds indicated that the Typha bed was characterized by a void volume fraction (porosity) of 0.16 and exhibited more ideal plug flow behavior (Pe=29.7) than the Phragmites bed (Pe = 26.7), which had similar porosity. The measured hydraulic residence times in the planted beds were 35.8 and 36.7 h when the flow was equal to 1 m3/d. The aim of this study was to assess the behavior of BTEX and paracetamol within pilot scale horizontal subsurface flow constructed wetlands built at Sternatia di Lecce, Italy. Specific objective of the experiments is to measure BTEX and paracetamol removal in HSFCWs planted with two different macrophyte species (Phragmites Australis and Typha Latifolia) and compare the removal in the planted reactors with removal in an unplanted control reactor to estimate the relative importance of various potential removal mechanisms. Generally BTEX removals were quite low ranging between 46 to 55%. The latter is probably due to the microbial communities associated with the plant rhizosphere which create an environment conducive to degradation for many volatile organic compounds. The initial concentration of each constituent of BTEX was 0.5 mg/l. The residual concentrations at the sampling points at the end of the phragmites field ranged between 0.23 mg/l (Xylenes and Ethylbenzene) to 0.26 mg/l for Toluene. The final residual concentrations in the typha field ranged between 0.22 mg/l (Xylenes) to 0.26 mg/l (Toluene). In the no planted field the final residual concentrations ranged between 0.26 mg/l (Xylenes) to 0.28 mg/l (Benzene). Greater HRTs (more than 5 days), should be necessary for achieving comparable removal rates for all substances of BTEX. The Phragmites bed exhibited a range of paracetamol removals from 51.7% for a Hydraulic Loading Rate (HLR) of 240 mm/d to 87% with 120 mm/d HLR and 99.9% with 30 mm/d. The Typha bed showed a similar behavior with percentages of removal slightly lower, ranging from 46.7% (HLR of 240 mm/d) to >99.9% (hydraulic loading rate of 30 mm/d). At the same HLR values the unplanted bed removed between 51.3% and 97.6% of the paracetamol. In all three treatments the paracetamol removal was higher with flow of 1 m3/d and an area of approx. 7.5 m2 (half bed) than in the case of flow equal to 0.5 m3/d with a surface treatment of approx. 3.75 m2. A first order model for paracetamol removal was evaluated and half lives of 5.16 to 10.2 h were obtained.

Tourism is a great source of employment and income in the economies of many regions, but also a source of environmental impacts. The main consequences are the increase of generation of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) and the effects in their management. The tourist presence affects the territory in terms of amount produced of MSW, but also of quality of Selective Collection (SC). In this paper three case studies are analysed in order to see the possible criticality in waste management about these areas and also taking into account strategies of energy recovery from Residual Municipal Solid Waste (RMSW). The case studies concern a tourist area in the North of Italy and one in the South of Italy, while another one in a Romanian region. In the summer season (June-August) the increase in waste production is clearly visible according to the Italian data. The opposite behaviour is observed for percentage of SC. The tourists’ behaviour influences negatively the SC's efficiency, above all in the South Italy case.

This paper reviews international highway runoff characterization studies from each continent to make a comparison of the results and to underline homogeneity in the models and the methods of monitoring and analysis of highway stormwater. To reach this objectives, the paper is organized as: review and organization of runoff characterization paper from North America, Europe, Asia, Australia and Africa (annual average daily traffic, drainage area, number of lanes, pavement type, impervious area, land use, hydrologic characteristic, sampling methods, QA/QC information, analytical technique, holding time, detection limits and water quality parameters); comparison of the results; description of importance of first flush (Gnecco et al., 2006); examination of toxicity of highway runoff (Kayhanian et al., 2008), and particle bound pollutants; individualization of surrogate water quality parameters; description of modeling and prediction of HWY runoff. Finally, the paper describes: indications presents in environmental regulations; potential use of universal method of collecting, analyzing, and interoperating runoff data; potential application of regional and international runoff quality data to address water quality standards and regulatory compliances. Discussion of results evidences that there is a need for an homogeneous approach in collecting data to the aim of compare them with the existing data. In fact, a high variability of the many water quality constituents is observed in highway stormwater runoff (table 1). This variability makes difficult the prediction of stormwater runoff constituents from site to site, or between runoff events at a single site, which is necessary for the planning and assessment of highway stormwater runoff data. To enable accurate prediction of the various constituents, a comprehensive understanding of the constituents of highway stormwater runoff, and more importantly, how these constituents vary both temporally and spatially, is required(Thomson, McBean, Snodgrass, 1995). Finally, this comparison of results also shown that is not necessary to implement new data campaign where conditions are quite similar other experiences, to avoid useless costs.

In this study two pilot scale Horizontal Subsurface Flow Constructed Wetlands (HSFCWs) near Lecce, Italy, planted with different macrophytes (Phragmites australis and Typha latifolia) and an unplanted control were assessed for their effectiveness in removing paracetamol. Residence time distributions (RTDs) for the two beds indicated that the Typha bed was characterized by a void volume fraction (porosity) of 0.16 and exhibited more ideal plug flow behavior (Pe = 29.7) than the Phragmites bed (Pe = 26.7), which had similar porosity. The measured hydraulic residence times in the planted beds were 35.8 and 36.7 h when the flow was equal to 1 m(3)/d. The Phragmites bed exhibited a range of paracetamol removals from 51.7% for a Hydraulic Loading Rate (HLR) of 240 mm/d to 87% with 120 mm/d HLR and 99.9% with 30 mm/d. The Typha bed showed a similar behavior with percentages of removal slightly lower, ranging from 46.7% (HLR of 240 mm/d) to >99.9% (hydraulic loading rate of 30 mm/d). At the same HLR values the unplanted bed removed between 51.3% and 97.6% of the paracetamol. In all three treatments the paracetamol removal was higher with flow of 1 m(3)/d and an area of approx. 7.5 m(2) (half bed) than in the case of flow equal to 0.5 m(3)/d with a surface treatment of approx. 3.75 m(2). A first order model for paracetamol removal was evaluated and half lives of 5.16 to 10.2 h were obtained.

Two pilot scale horizontal subsurface flow constructed wetlands (HSFCWs), with a planted area of 15 m2 each, were constructed in Puglia, Italy, and planted with hydrophytes (Phragmites australis and Typha latifolia), while a similar field of equal size was used as a control. The primary aim of the present work was to assess the removal of three heavy metals from waste‐water, in relation to the evapotranspiration, using HSFCWs.

The quality of water bodies is directly related to the coverage and efficiency of the Sewage systems. This article intends to make a parallel between the situation in Italy and in Brazil by the analysis of the existing environmental legislation and public policies of investment in sewerage sector. 144 Italian regulatory is still lacking of full acceptance of European Water Framework Directive 2000/60/CE. Particularly Article 16 of the Water Framework Directive (2000/60/EC) sets out a “Strategy against pollution of water” outlining the steps to be taken. The first step of the strategy was the establishment of a First list of priority substances under the Water Framework Directive. Various monitoring programs have evidenced the occurrence of growing concentrations of new emergent pollutants that compromise the qualitative state of rivers, lakes and sea. A first estimate of works for the italian wastewater treatment plants improving efficiencies for facing of new priority pollutants is more than 3,5 billion of Euros as whole. One of the problem for a large number of these WWTPs enhancing is the lack of area for operational basins enlargement. After about 10 years of discussions, the Brazilian Parliament adopted federal law 11,445/07 that constitutes the new regulatory framework for the sanitation sector in the country. Now be called basic sanitation service composed of four components: water supply, sewerage, solid waste management and stewardship of urban stormwater drainage. The low level of investments and the lack of a regulatory framework led to increasing deficits of sanitation, to the extent that the Brazilian population increased in urban areas, increase that wasn’t followed by coverage of services. The determination of deficits suffers due to multiple data sources are available as: • Censos 2000 e 2010 • PNSB 2000 e 2008 • PNAD 2001 a 2008 • SNIS 2007 • SISAGUA • SIG Cisternas • SEDEC • Ministério da Integração Nacional Besides these sources of data from federal agencies, which are sometimes inconsistent and dispersed, there are other States which also cause differences of information, as the case may be. This complex situation of data source, you can get some values of the deficit: There is no information about the service coverage of urban drainage, because there is not a general register of this grace practically urban infrastructure throughout the country. There are few municipalities that come with registration. To take forward these challenges to achieve the universalization of the provision of services throughout the country, the sources of resources are: • Donor Funds resources – FGTS e FAT – Costly. • OGU – not costly. • International Loans (BIRD e BID, for example); • Operators’ own resources. According to the Ministry of Cities, in 2009, were committed R$ 6.6 billion, but disbursed R$ 3.5 billion.

In this study, the production of storage polymers is made when cheese production wastewater is treated. Cheese plants typically produce high-strength wastewaters on an intermittent basis and are particularly suitable for treatment in Sequencing Batch Reactor (SBR) systems. The SBRs were operated in triplicate under two filling scenarios: 'React Fill' (RF) with mixing/aeration; 'Static Fill' (SF) with no mixing/aeration. The results suggest that an 'SF' approach outperforms an 'RF' with respect to storage products production (50% more PHB, 15% more glycogen). Additionally, the famine phase duration will vary depending on wastewater strength, suggesting optimisation per waste stream.

Constructed wetlands are a natural alternative to technical methods of wastewater treatment. They can remove Benzene, Toluene, Ethylbenzene, Xylenes (BTEX), and metals from wastewater, which are commonly encountered pollutants. In this paper, an experimental pilot-scale Horizontal Subsurface Flow Constructed Wetland (HSFCW) located in Lecce (Apulia, South Italy) has been reported. The experiments were carried out in three constructed wetlands. Two of them were planted with two different species of macrophytes and the third was used as a control. The objectives of this study are to compare hydraulic behavior of the CWs with the trend of the model by varying the hydraulic conditions, to evaluate the effect of the clogging and then to assess the efficiency of the different species of macrophytes in removing BTEX and metals. At the beginning of the experience and after 24 months, the results show a good correlation in the hydraulic behavior between model and physical data by modifying input parameters as a consequence of the clogging. The BTEX removal planted fields is higher than the unplanted one, while the three HSFCWs have a similar capacity in removing Cr, Fe, and Pb.

Tourism strongly influences quantity and composition of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) and can affect the management of the facilities. MSW management is not only a contemporary problem but also an issue at world level. The dynamics of MSW production in tourist areas is affected by the addition of a significant amount of population equivalent during few months. Consequences are seen in terms of amount of MSW to be managed, but also on the quality of Selective Collection (SC). In this paper a case study is analyzed in order to point out some strategies useful for a correct management of this problem, also taking into account the interactions with the sector of waste-to-energy. The case studies concern a tourist area in the South. Peak of production are clearly visible during the last two years. SC variations demonstrate that the tourists’behavior is not adequate to get the same results as with the resident population.

This review interprets highway runoff characterization studies performed on different continents. The results are synthesized to discuss the historical trends, first flush effects of pollutants, pollutant form as dissolved vs. particulate, and to identify surrogate water quality parameters. The information presented in this review showed that: (1) variability has been observed in all quality parameters from each continent and among continents; (2) with a few exceptions the variability seems to be within the expected range; (3) inconsistent monitoring data as well as inconsistent quality assurance and quality control measures were reported among studies, which may be partially responsible for variability of water quality results; (4) compared with historic data, the concentration of total Pb decreased exponentially, which can mostly be credited to leaded gasoline phase-out regulation; (5) first flush effects of pollutants based on concentration have been reported consistently (however, mass first flush effects for pollutants have been reported inconsistently compared with concentration first flush effect); (6) most metal pollutants and phosphorus are present in both the particulate and dissolved forms; and (7) strong correlations were observed between TSS, TDS, TOC and iron (Fe) and 13 other constituents and water quality parameters (turbidity, O&G, TPH, DOC, TKN, EC, Cl, Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, Zn).

Waste management in historical city centres may be challengeable for waste handling operatives. In this paper a developed plan is presented for vacuum waste collection system for the historical city centre of Sibiu, Romania, together with its feasibility and opportunities. The main goal is to improve the urban environment, maintain the historic appeal, and stimulate local economic activity. This optimal solution is following the models of other European cities. The system is designed for the main streets and the total waste amount is calculated; moreover the number of population served is correlated with seasonal tourist flow. The following research is provided as an example to be followed by other cities facing the same challenges.

In most regions of the world, safeguarding groundwater resources is a serious issue, particularly in coastal areas where groundwater is the main water source for drinking, irrigation and industry. Water availability depends on climate, topography and geology. The aim of this paper is to evaluate aquifer recharge as a possible strategy to relieve water resource scarcity. Natural aquifer recharge is defined as the downward flow of water reaching the water table, increasing the groundwater reservoir. Hydro-meteorological factors (rainfall, evapotranspiration and runoff) may alter natural recharge processes. Artificial aquifer recharge is a process by which surface water is introduced with artificial systems underground to fill an aquifer. As a consequence of global warming that has increased the frequency and severity of natural disasters like the drought, the impacts of climate change and seasonality, the artificial recharge has been considered as a viable option. Different direct and indirect techniques can be used, and the choice depends on the hydrologic characteristics of a specific area. In Italy, Legislative Decree no. 152/06 plans artificial aquifer recharge as an additional measure in water management, and Decree no. 100/2016 establishes quantitative and qualitative conditions for recharge. Many projects examine aquifer recharge, such us WADIS-MAR in the southern Mediterranean region, WARBO in Italy and municipal wastewater treatment project in Apulia, a southern Italian region. However, aside from groundwater recharge, the community must foster a spirit of cooperation to manage groundwater as a sustainable resource.