Enhanced biological phosphorus removal (EBPR)

Enhanced Biological Phosphorus Removal (EBPR) is a wastewater treatment process that uses specific bacteria to remove excess phosphorus from sewage. These bacteria, called polyphosphate-accumulating organisms, absorb phosphorus in large amounts during certain conditions. By promoting these bacteria's activity through controlled environmental changes (like alternating anaerobic and aerobic conditions), the process separates phosphorus from the water effectively. The phosphorus-rich bacteria are then removed with the sludge, reducing nutrient pollution in the environment. EBPR is an eco-friendly, cost-effective method to prevent issues like algal blooms caused by excess phosphorus in water bodies.