In the context of wastewater treatment, what does BOD stand for?

In wastewater treatment, BOD stands for Biological Oxygen Demand. This term refers to the amount of oxygen that microorganisms will consume while decomposing organic matter in water. It is an essential measure used to assess the degree of pollution in wastewater. A higher BOD indicates a greater amount of organic material present, which can lead to oxygen depletion in receiving waters if not adequately treated. This is critical for ensuring that aquatic life can thrive, as oxygen levels in water bodies are essential for fish and other aquatic organisms. Understanding BOD helps wastewater treatment facilities to gauge their treatment efficiency and manage effluent quality.