Anaerobic Treatment of Olive Mills Water: Potentials for Watershed Protection in Jordan

Abstract

Jordan watersheds heavily suffer from the seasonal discharge of highly concentrated olive mill wastewater (OMW). Environmental concern and protection of the scarcely available water resources calls for adequate treatment of OMW prior to discharge. This paper describes an inventory that was made with the aim of developing pollution prevention strategies for the olive mill sector of the Jerash Governorate in Jordan. Emphasis was given to compiling regional research which shows that modern anaerobic technology may play an important role in treating the highly concentrated OMW. The paper also presents pre and post treatment options for achieving local discharge criteria. Based on literature review and current insights three innovative treatment strategies are presented for OMW in the Jerash region.