Spatial-Temporal Dynamics of Effluent Discharge in Aquatic Habitats

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My PhD focuses on the spatial and temporal dynamics of effluent discharge in aquatic habitats. The initial emphasis of the study is the release of treated municipal waste from Howden Sewage Treatment Works into the lower River Tyne, which is characterised by dynamic tidal patterns and high-flow conditions. Using diverse datasets encompassing river flow, tidal height, water quality, and effluent discharge, my PhD will examine effluent discharge across daily to seasonal timescales and during periods of low and high rainfall. This will identify when the effluent will be most prevalent in the River Tyne. To assess the fate of the discharged effluent, my research will compare modelled predictions of spatial distribution with weekly observations measured in the vicinity of the discharge point. By integrating hydrological measurements with water quality and effluent discharge data, this study aims to enhance our understanding of effluent dynamics, providing valuable insights for future monitoring and predictive capabilities. The results will also inform the potential for indirect emissions resulting from effluent degradation. Although the wastewater industry is not currently obligated to report such emissions, this is anticipated to change in the near future and the outputs of this study will help inform mitigation measures. Following the initial phase of work, this study will extend its findings to selected tributaries of the River Tyne that host smaller waste water treatment plants. This will identify how the spatial-temporal dynamics differ between small and large-scale rates of effluent discharge.