Biofilter

A **biofilter** is a system that uses living organisms, typically microorganisms like bacteria and fungi, to remove pollutants from air or water. These organisms consume or metabolize contaminants, converting them into less harmful substances. Biofilters are commonly employed in wastewater treatment, air purification, and soil remediation, offering a sustainable and environmentally friendly approach to pollution control. Their efficiency depends on factors such as media type, moisture content, temperature, and the specific contaminants present. They can range in scale from small-scale home units to large industrial installations.

Biofilter meaning with examples

• An agricultural facility implemented a biofilter to treat the runoff from their livestock operations. The system efficiently removed nitrogen and phosphorus, preventing them from contaminating nearby waterways and leading to environmental degradation.
• A brewery uses a biofilter to treat the air exhausted during fermentation. This eliminates volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like alcohols and esters, controlling odors and reducing air pollution for neighbors around their location.
• Wastewater treatment plants often employ **biofilters** in their secondary treatment processes. These filters remove dissolved organic matter, helping the plants meet stringent discharge limits and protect the receiving waters downstream.
• In a closed-loop aquaculture system, a biofilter is crucial for maintaining water quality. It converts toxic ammonia, produced by fish waste, into less harmful nitrates, creating a healthy environment for the fish to thrive.
• A soil contaminated with hydrocarbons was remediated using a biofilter. Microorganisms in the soil were stimulated to break down the pollutants into less harmful substances, improving the long-term quality of the site.