A simple method to reduce discharge of sewage microorganisms from an Antarctic research station.
The majority of coastal Antarctic stations release untreated sewage into the near-shore marine environment. This study examined bacterial reproduction within the temporary sewage-holding tanks of Rothera Research Station (Adelaide Island, Antarctic Peninsula) and monitored sewage pollution in the local marine environment. By continuously flushing the sewage-holding tanks with cold seawater we inhibited microbial reproduction and decreased the numbers of bacteria subsequently released into the sea by >90%. The widespread use of this simple method could significantly reduce the numbers of faecal coliform and other non-native microorganisms introduced into the Antarctic marine environment.
Hughes
Kevin A
KA
British Antarctic Survey, Natural Environment Research Council, High Cross, Madingley Road, Cambridge CB3 0ET, UK. kehu@bas.ac.uk
Blenkharn
Nigel
N
D000864:Antarctic Regions; D003080:Cold Temperature; D003247:Conservation of Natural Resources; D004755:Enterobacteriaceae; D011157:Population Dynamics; D012098:Reproduction; D012722:Sewage / Q000382:microbiology*; D014865:Waste Disposal, Fluid / Q000379:methods*; D014872:Water Movements; D014876:Water Pollution / Q000517:prevention & control
D012722:Sewage