Stages of the Organic Waste Digestion Process in Collection Systems & WWTPs

1. Organic Waste Accumulation

The accumulated biodegradable material is an unpredictable mix of organic substances, including fats, oils, grease, hydrocarbons, cellulose, proteins, and starches.

2. Bacterial Activity

Bacteria reproduce and release specific enzymes to break down the organic waste, forming a “team” of enzymes that efficiently degrade diverse substances.

3. Enzymatic Breakdown

Enzymes break the chemical bonds holding organic materials together, initiating the degradation process by converting complex polymers into simpler compounds.

4. Final Degradation

Bacteria further break down organic matter into simple compounds like CO₂ and H₂O while recycling essential nutrients for system balance.