The Flagstaff Water Group (FWG), composed of five local scientists deeply concerned about removing hazardous contaminants from Flagstaff’s reclaimed wastewater, is presenting information about how biochar can be used to remove chemical contaminants.
This presentation and discussion will take place this Wednesday June 25, at 7:00 pm at the Market of Dreams (2136 N. 4th Street). This event is free and open to the public.
The FWG has been studying biochar over the last two years because of its ability to remove hazardous contaminants from wastewater, especially cancer-causing and endocrine disruptive compounds. The group has concluded that biochar has a great future for wastewater processing in Flagstaff and elsewhere.
Flagstaff’s A+ reclaimed wastewater contains contaminants like pharmaceuticals and PFAS. There is a desire that this water to be cleaned for safe aquifer recharge and eventually potable use. F3 has advocated for years that the city conduct advanced treatment of reclaimed water prior to aquifer recharge. Arizona recently completed regulations for making potable water from reclaimed water and biochar has become a candidate process for use in those treatment processes.
PFAS is class of “forever chemicals” recently regulated in potable water. Many PFAS compounds are quite toxic (carcinogenic). PFAS compounds bioaccumulate and are significant health hazards. Other contaminants, such as pharmaceuticals, are not regulated in drinking water, but the FWG and others believe they should be removed. Many researchers have shown the effectiveness of biochar for removing PFAS and other water contaminants.
The FWG invites Flagstaff and regional residents to learn about the potential of biochar in making our reclaimed water healthier.
See you there,
Michele James
Executive Director
