Since 2013, Unitywater has planted and nurtured native forest and wetland vegetation on a former dairy farm adjacent to the Maleny Wastewater Treatment Plant.
This 13.8 hectares of forest and three hectares of wetland have since been irrigated with treated effluent, becoming a natural extension of the water treatment process, soaking up residual nutrients and further purifying the water before it reaches the Obi Obi Creek.
Unitywater Executive Manager Strategic Engagement, Joshua Zugajev, says the team's work at the Maleny Wastewater Treatment Plant has made an incredible impact on the local environment and hopes the collaborative visit will see these methods adopted across the industry.
“Our processes at the Maleny Wastewater Treatment Plant are naturally reducing the environmental impact of wastewater treatment. We’ve transformed a former dairy farm into a vital part of our operations and an essential habitat for wildlife,” said Mr. Zugajev.
“The forest and wetland surrounding our treatment plant is now home to a variety of species, from flying foxes and pythons to goannas, bandicoots, and even a pair of platypuses that have made their way from Obi Obi Creek.”
“By turning a former dairy farm into a thriving ecosystem that supports both wildlife and our water treatment processes, we’re showing what’s possible when innovative thinking and a deep respect for the environment come together.”
Fiji National University Associate Professor, Dr. Shipar Shah, says the irrigated forest and wetlands at the Maleny Wastewater Treatment Plant are an excellent example of catering to population growth while caring for the environment.
“We’re really intrigued by how Unitywater has successfully integrated this irrigated forest into the wastewater treatment process in a climate very similar to ours in Fiji. It gives us valuable insights into how we can adopt similar practices back home, which can benefit both our water systems and natural habitat,” said Dr. Shah.
Mr Zugajev said the project was a demonstration of how collaboration with partners, both locally and internationally, could lead to meaningful change.
“By sharing our knowledge and experiences with the visiting team from Fiji, we’re fostering a relationship that benefits both our communities and the global push towards more sustainable water practices,” he said.
To read more about Unitywater’s plans for environmental sustainability, visit their website at www.unitywater.com/about-us/our-business/sustainability.
