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A Multi-Tiered Approach to Sanitation   Large municipal sewage treatment works are the backbone of South African sanitation, with approximately 12 million households connected to a municipal sewer. However, these systems are taking strain.  According to the 2023 Green Drop Report, 334 of South Africa’s 850 municipal plants are in a critical state. These facilities often […]

Schools often need to take on more learners, putting tremendous strain on sanitation systems unable to cope with the increased load. Unless addressed as a matter of urgency, pollution spreads in an environment where sanitation safety is critical.  What are the options when schools need to increase sanitation capacity?   Conservancy tanks  A conservancy tank is a watertight tank that contains sewage but does not treat it. It means that the sewage must be

Since 2007, Calcamite Water & Sanitation Solutions has been at the forefront of manufacturing small-scale decentralised wastewater treatment plants (DEWATS) across South Africa and the broader African continent. To date, approximately 2000 systems have been installed, collectively treating an estimated 2.2 million m³ of wastewater per year; turning a challenge into an asset for communities, businesses and remote sites.  What Makes Decentralised Treatment

Small-scale on-site wastewater treatment plants are often required where there is no municipal sewage connection available and where an acceptable effluent standard is required for water reuse for irrigation, toilet flushing, dust suppression, and other non-potable uses.  The maintenance requirements of wastewater treatment plants are directly related to the size of the plant and the volume of sewage treated daily. Small-scale household plants are not

Access to clean water is considered a fundamental human right. Safeguarding public health and the environment depends on effective wastewater treatment.   That’s why it’s so concerning that over 50% of South Africa’s wastewater treatment works (WWTPs) are failing.   No fewer than 334 (39%) out of 850 are actually in a critical state. On top of

Septic tanks are a common solution for managing wastewater in off-grid or low-infrastructure areas. Their main function is to slow down the flow of wastewater from household plumbing, allowing solids to settle and grease or scum to float. The result is a partially treated effluent that flows into a soakaway, where the soil and surrounding

Did you know improper waste management could lead to hefty fines and long-term environmental damage?   In South Africa, businesses that produce oily, greasy, or contaminated wastewater are legally required to manage that waste responsibly. Whether you operate a busy restaurant, vehicle workshop, or food-processing facility, having the right systems in place is essential for both

One size doesn’t fit all – especially when it comes to managing waste. In South Africa, where municipal infrastructure isn’t always available, many properties rely on off-grid sewage systems to manage household and commercial wastewater. Whether a home, lodge, or new development, choosing the right solution is essential for environmental compliance, cost control, and long-term

South Africa deals with water scarcity and pollution every day. The availability of clean water is a fundamental pillar of public health and economic stability. And as urban areas expand, pressure on our limited water resources continues to grow, making effective wastewater treatment in South Africa more important than ever.   What Are Wastewater Treatment Plants? 

Across the world, the demand for effective wastewater management is growing, especially in areas where large-scale municipal treatment plants aren’t a viable option, or existing large-scale plants is overloaded due to population growth.   For semi-urban, rural communities, small businesses, and off-grid locations, small scale water treatment systems provide a practical and cost-effective solution.   Small scale