An integrated approach to improving waste stabilisation pond performance

Waste stabilisation ponds (WSPs) experience poor performance due to a combination of issues associated with hydraulics, sludge and microbial dynamics, as well as increased load due to population growth. In this study, high-resolution bathymetry technology, hydrodynamic modelling, and microbial dynamics were used to develop a performance assessment framework for WSPs. In particular, the applied outcomes from this thesis have resulted in a better assessment of sludge accumulation and distribution, and hydraulic performance, as well as the development of a new microbial characterisation approach. This study has contributed to improved operation, management, and planning of current and future wastewater infrastructure.