By using this method, Sydney Water can eliminate the use of chemicals and other substances to achieve this result. Phosphorus, nitrogen and ammonia are nutrients. The main impact of these nutrients is usually increased growth of all aquatic algae. In estuarine waters, nitrogen has been proven as a nutrient which can promote algal growth. In rivers and creeks, excessive algal growth can deplete oxygen levels in the water and become toxic to fish and other aquatic life such as sea grasses.
Algal blooms can also turn the water green, reduce water transparency and create odour problems.
Algal blooms also impair the aesthetic qualities of inland waterways and can create odour problems. While the ocean plants discharge higher levels of nutrients during their operations, there is little to no effect on aquatic life or the environment. This is because of the dilution and dispersal that occurs in an ocean environment. Nutrients are also considered beneficial to the diets of ocean fish. Phosphorus and nitrogen are introduced to the waste water stream from a variety of sources in the residential, commercial and industrial customers.