Lack of education about onsite domestic wastewater management systems (OWMSs) including septic tanks is a major factor causing damage to environmental and public health, according to a La Trobe University study.
Mismanaged OWMSs can cause algal bloom, contaminate local water supply and attract viruses and bacteria to surrounding ground leading to a high risk of infection.
Education is the most effective way to prevent OWMS problems according to researcher Jason Barnes.
‘Education of plumbers, system owners, community members, and water authorities would greatly improve the capacity for people to manage these systems efficiently,’ said Mr Barnes.
Mr Barnes has called for more comprehensive and accessible wastewater literature.
Read more at La Trobe University