b'Policy Brief: WastewaterINNOVATION IN WASTEWATER & THE ROLE FOR BIOFILM TECHBiofilms are communities of microorganisms - bacteria,The need for innovation in the UKs wastewater system archaea, fungi, protozoa and virusesthat represent theis clear, and while there are challenges, there are also predominant lifestyle of microbial life on earth. Researchongoing efforts and potential strategies to address on biofilms is fundamentally interdisciplinary, includingthem. The success of these initiatives will depend on microbiologists, engineers, physicists, mathematicians,continued investment, innovation, and collaboration chemists, geologists and beyond. Biofilms researchacross sectors and stakeholders. Harnessing innovation can significantly enhance wastewater treatmentin microbial and biofilm science will provide a partial by leveraging the unique properties of biofilms. solution to many of these challenges. NBIC is well- placed to address many of these issues from various Microorganisms are intrinsic to wastewater treatment.perspectives given its multi- disciplinary approach.So called activated sludge systems consist of microbial communities suspended in waste streams where theyWE RECOMMENDdegrade organic components to produce high-quality outflows. A constant supply of oxygen is needed. AfterInvestment in Infrastructure: Substantial aeration, the microbial communities are allowed to settlefunding is needed to replace and/or upgrade as sludge, which is then either reused in the next cycle,the aging network with more modern, efficient, or processed for further use. Alternatively, attachedand resilient biofilm-based systems, and to growth systems employ microbial communities adheredre-invent wastewater infrastructure.to solid supports such as gravel (e.g. in trickling filters),Investment in Research: Developing new materials membrane bioreactors or rotating biological filters. for more effective prevention of bad biofilms and promoting formation of good biofilms for removal KEY INFRASTRUCTURE CHALLENGES of phosphorous and remediation of e.g. metals, Capacity: The largely Victorian sewer systempharmaceuticals or forever chemicals (PFAS/PFOA).was not built to accommodate the significant population growth and urban expansionImproved Design: Enabling automation, utilising that has occurred since the 19th century. biofilm communities to track and remote sense environmental pollutants and pathogens. Recover Age: Old pipes and treatment facilities areresources for use in the circular economy.prone to leaks and blockages, requiring frequent maintenance and repairs. Enhanced Performance and Innovation: Decrease emissions of greenhouse gases as a by-product Climate Change and Flooding: During heavyof microbial activity e.g. nitrous oxide. Additional rainfall, the combined system of surface waterinvestment in technologies to harvest energy and sewage can overflow, leading to untreatedthrough use of microbial electrochemistry.waste entering rivers and seas. Phosphorous reduction targets 1 : phosphorous release fromPublic Engagement: Involve local treated wastewater can cause algal bloomscommunities in wastewater management and oxygen starvation. The Environmentand adopting sustainable practices.Act 2021 sets an ambitious target of an 80%Public-Private Partnerships: Collaboration reduction in phosphorous emissions by 2038between the government and private and a 50% reduction in the next 4 years. sector can accelerate the development and Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Existing wastewaterimplementation of infrastructure projects.treatment processes can lead to emissions of[1] UK Government Plan for Water.difficult-to-measure fugitive greenhouse gases.47'