​​A Sustainable Approach to Brewery Wastewater

MBAA TQ https://doi.org/10.1094/TQ-57-4-1207-01 | ​VIEW ARTICLE
Orianna Bretschger. Aquacycl, Escondido, CA 92029, U.S.A.​
 
Abstract
Wastewater management is never a primary consideration to breweries that are just getting started. However, as they grow, it can become a limiting factor. With the explosive growth of the brewing industry over the past decade, utilities are challenged to treat the high-strength wastewater and are limiting discharge levels or increasing rates. New microbial fuel cell (MFC) technology provides an option for onsite treatment of the ultra-high-strength (and most costly) streams, enabling brewers to meet their permitted levels, even while expanding production. While the technology is not applicable in all cases, brewers should understand how new MFC systems can be used to reduce wastewater management costs.​