Environmental effects of sewage oceanic disposal by submarine outfalls: a review

DOI: 10.15343/0104-7809.2012364643661

Abstract

Oceanic disposal systems of domestic sewage, or submarine sewage outfalls, have been historically used around the world
as a solution for urban effluents, in special due to economic aspects. However, release into the ocean, in shallow or deep
waters, may induce a set of negative environmental impacts, as eutrophication, toxic algal blooms, pathogenic microorganisms
introduction and contamination by chemical substances which are capable of causing toxic effects to the biota
and bioaccumulation. Thus, the release of untreated sewage into the sea does not constitute an adequate environmental
practice; then, urban effluents should be treated in order to remove nutrients, contaminants and pathogenic organisms and
avoid environmental degradation