INTRODUCTION

Why have we got outfalls?

Human health considerations were the historical reason for constructing sewerage systems and outfalls so that sewage could be separated from the humans that generated it. Now, with increasing populations and a greater awareness of environmental impacts and the finite nature of resources, we are re-evaluating the way we manage sewage.   

A consideration of the whole water cycle has led the EPA to conclude that water and nutrients in sewage are a valuable resource which we must make concerted efforts to recover. Therefore, discharges to the ocean and other waters are not considered until other options such as source control and re-use have been exhausted.

The EPA will continue to develop and refine various incentives to minimise discharges to the ocean including:

• financial incentives (e.g. Load based licensing)

• enforceable Pollution Reduction Target Pollution Reduction

• Programs as conditions of discharge licenses

• strategic planning in the form of Regional Effluent Management plans

But, in at least the short and medium terms, some discharges to the ocean will be necessary if we are to safeguard public health and avert more serious environmental problems in coastal catchments.