General effluent standards (GES) between countries differ mainly on three things: (1) Sampling method, (2) Significant Parameters, and (3) Acceptable Values. 

Sampling method. To consider the variations in sewage treatment plant (STP) performance and the fluctuations in the wastewater discharge of every establishment, some countries have a prescribed sampling frequency depending on the parameter and the establishment. For example, Japan has a prescribed limit based on daily averages and an absolute maximum for every parameter.
 

Table 1: Japan General Effluent Standards

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This results to higher sampling costs but it would also result in lesser penalty disputes and complaints since the wastewater treatment system’s performance can be evaluated more clearly, fairly, and accurately. In the case of the Philippines, we employ the grab sampling method wherein the plant’s performance evaluated from a single sample. This requires wastewater contractors and consultants to be more skilled and employ more stringent tolerances and consistency in the design and operations of the wastewater treatment plant.

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Significant Parameters. Each country has a different regulation on which parameters to measure. These parameters generally differ depending on the use of the receiving body of water (RBW) and the establishment which will discharge the wastewater.

 
Table 2: Sample for Philippine Significant Parameters

 

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The Philippines has a similar system wherein industries are categorized based on their PSIC Code. This system could significantly lower the capital costs of STP construction by limiting the required parameters to be treated. However, the presence of domestic wastewater (e.g. waste from comfort rooms) requires the application of the GES in addition to the significant effluent parameters required per sector.

At Anthroserv, we consider alternative solutions such as separate modular treatment plants for domestics wastewater treatment to lower the overall capital cost, treatment cost, and operational complexity.

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Acceptable Values. Local and national regulations dictate the permissible limit of significant parameters. Similar to the determination of significant parameters, these limits are determined depending on the use and classification of the RBW, and the industry that discharges the wastewater.

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Table 3: Philippine General Effluent Standards compared to International General Effluent Standards

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*Average of values from Japan , Laos , Taiwan , Thailand , India , and Malaysia 
**application of standards is as determined by the Canada Fisheries Act of 2012

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Beyond the application of the DAO 2021-19, the Philippines remains to be one of the most stringent in terms of overall wastewater regulation and implementation. This remains to be a challenge for all stakeholders including business owners, wastewater contractors and consultants, and regulators in our mission of achieving a clean, healthy, and sustainable future.