Spilvann

Spilvann is a term used in some Nordic languages, notably Norwegian and Swedish, to refer to wastewater or sewage. It is a compound word, with "spill" meaning "spill" or "waste" and "vann" meaning "water." Therefore, spilvann literally translates to "waste water."

The term encompasses water that has been used in domestic, commercial, or industrial activities and is no longer suitable for its original purpose. This can include water from toilets, sinks, showers, washing machines, dishwashers, as well as industrial process water and stormwater runoff that has become contaminated. Properly managing and treating spilvann is crucial for public health and environmental protection. Untreated spilvann can carry pathogens, pollutants, and nutrients that can contaminate drinking water sources, harm aquatic ecosystems, and spread diseases.

Wastewater treatment plants are designed to remove these harmful substances from spilvann before it is discharged back into the environment. These plants typically involve several stages, including preliminary treatment to remove large solids, primary treatment to settle out suspended solids, secondary treatment to remove dissolved organic matter and nutrients, and sometimes tertiary treatment for further purification. The collected and treated spilvann is then released into rivers, lakes, or the sea, or it may be further processed for reuse in certain applications.