Innovating wastewater technology in Prince Rupert

The City of Prince Rupert is looking to assess the feasibility of green infrastructure solutions that could help it avoid the high capital costs associated with separating the city’s combined sewer while meeting federal wastewater regulations and discharge requirements. The study will evaluate how the proposed solutions could be used for end-of-pipe effluent treatment of the combined sewer system and for wet weather bypass flows. This study is in line with the with the City of Prince Rupert’s Sustainable City Policy Objectives 2030.

The city is proposing two green infrastructure solutions. These are engineered wetland treatment systems with two components referred to as the Wastewater Kidney™ and the Stormwater Kidney™. The study will analyze how the city can use these systems to eliminate the need for sewer separation.

Social and environmental objectives include improving public health by eliminating sewage discharge into the ocean and improving water quality in the port of Prince Rupert, allowing for greater recreational opportunities.

Innovative aspect(s):

• This study will provide a unique solution to managing storm water and wastewater from combined sewer systems, and will eliminate the need for combined sewer separation
• This study will provide knowledge and lessons learned about how engineered wetlands can be applied in colder climates.

Replicability:

• This study could be replicated by other Canadian municipalities with similar population sizes struggling to comply with new wastewater regulations at existing facilities and looking to avoid the significant costs of combined sewer system separation
• If it is found to be feasible, the engineered wetland system could be replicated in small municipalities in colder climates