A Strategic Decision Framework for a Sustainable Wastewater Treatment and Management in the Oil Producing Region

Abstract

The study aimed to investigate how managing the growing water demand and wastewater production by treating and reclaiming Water from the Wastewater in Delta State. Mainly to carry out a comparative feasibility study and develop a decision support system (DSS) or strategy/planning framework for a sustainable alternative for water/wastewater treatment and management in oil & gas industries, Water, wastewater industries and authorities in Delta State. Data was collected using a mixed approach. Primary data was collected using semi-structured interviews and closed-ended questionnaire survey. Descriptive analysis was applied in analysing the questionnaires, and thematic analysis was used in analysing the interviews. It was concluded that a centralised system is required to collect rainwater and wastewater, and recycle Water in Delta state for reuse, and reduce dependence on freshwater. It will be an improvement to the direct collection of wastewater from individual houses by private waste management organisations that drain the sewage systems.  It was found that causes of water and wastewater problems in Delta State, Nigeria include: government regulation; financial problem; lack of sufficient land for development; pollution; high population; using potable Water for non-potable use; water shortage; poor technology; lack of people’s awareness on water, and poor maintenance. Based on this, grey water reuse, decentralised system of water reclamation and education and awareness of wastewater management were recommended to solve the water and wastewater problems found in the state. Microscale solutions such as ponds, permeable pavements, rain gardens, rainwater harvesting systems, wetlands, and green roofs were recommended. In addition to the recommendations, a strategic framework/decision support system for sustainable alternatives for oil, gas, water and wastewater industries and authorities was developed. Keywords: Framework, Graywater, Management, Pollution, Water, Wastewater DOI: 10.7176/CER/12-8-04 Publication date: August 31 st 2020