>
How Do Cruise Ships Get Rid of Human Waste?
Onboard Treatment Plants
Cruise ships are like small cities floating on the ocean, and like any city, they need to deal with waste. One of the most important types of waste that cruise ships need to get rid of is human waste. This waste is typically treated in an onboard treatment plant.
Treatment Process
The treatment process typically involves several steps.
- Screening: The waste is first screened to remove any solids, such as paper or plastic.
- Primary Treatment: The waste is then sent to a primary treatment tank, where it is mixed with chemicals to remove solids and dissolved organic matter.
- Secondary Treatment: The waste is then sent to a secondary treatment tank, where it is aerated to promote the growth of bacteria. These bacteria break down the organic matter in the waste.
- Disinfection: The waste is then disinfected to kill any remaining bacteria.
The treated waste is then discharged overboard into the ocean. The discharge is carefully monitored to ensure that it meets the environmental standards set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
Other Methods of Waste Disposal
In addition to onboard treatment plants, cruise ships may also use other methods of waste disposal, such as:
- Incineration: This method involves burning the waste at a high temperature.
- Landfilling: This method involves dumping the waste in a landfill.
However, these methods are less common than onboard treatment plants, as they can be more expensive and less environmentally friendly.
Conclusion
Cruise ships use a variety of methods to get rid of human waste, including onboard treatment plants, incineration, and landfilling. The most common method is onboard treatment plants, which are designed to clean the waste to a level that meets environmental standards. These plants are essential for protecting the marine environment and ensuring that cruise ships can continue to operate safely and responsibly.