Are we about to reliably predict the fate of micropollutants through wastewater treatment plants?
Résumé
Models for micropollutants (MPs) are required to provide engineers and decision-makers with reliable tools that will help increase MP removal through wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) and minimize their impact on the receiving waters. This paper aims at identifying the modelling needs of research (fundamental) vs. practice (design) vs. regulation (compliance) with a focus on the interactions. Different model developments that have occurred recently are first presented with a discussion on the key-question of the ‘optimum complexity’. Sampling strategies are also discussed since they influence the model uncertainty. Finally, the paper proposes suggestions for how models might be modified to incorporate our evolving knowledge about MP fate to improve model utility into the future. For instance, the relative role of heterotrophic bacteria versus ammonia oxidizing autotrophic bacteria towards the fate of MPs should be addressed, and the elaboration of a unified agreement on experimental protocols would be necessary to advance model calibration. The degree to which by-products that have ecotoxicological relevance are created during treatment is also a key issue that needs to be considered in future model as well as the use of ecological models as a means to benchmark modifications to wastewater treatment.
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