Abstract

This study takes a look into the factors affecting the efficient operation of the Evaporation Pond system used for the disposal of tannery effluent. Guidelines are given for improving the efficiency of the evaporation pond operation which will minimize grounds for complaints due to the occurrence of anaerobic conditions. The climatic conditions for the region are very important factors in making the system economically viable, i.e. the evaporation rate. The results for monitoring, over a period of 16 months, one such system which has been in continuous operation for 15 years are evaluated. These results show that the pond system is a cost-effective and low technology method for handling tannery effluent. The disadvantages are the possible production of smell and corrosive hydrogen sulphide. The land area required for the ponds and the fact that the saline wastewater cannot, at present, be recycled back into the tannery. These factors must be balanced against the cost, high technology and close supervision required for more modern methods of wastewater management, which, however, have the potential for water recycling.