8.6.1 What are the potential advantages and disadvantages of infiltration?
The following table outlines the potential advantages and disadvantages of effluent infiltration.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Suitable option when reuse of effluent is not possible | Depending on the infiltration system, there is a relatively high space requirement (min. 20 m2/m3 effluent for infiltration trenches) |
| Infiltration by trenches is cheap if gravel and geotextile are locally available and the soil is sufficiently porous | The level of deep groundwater can increase following infiltration. The risk of flooding may increase. Adequate security measures must be considered |
| Implementation is relatively easy and can be done by local workers under supervision | Infiltration fields cannot be ploughed or cultivated. Tree roots in the infiltration trenches need to be avoided |
| Health risks are minimal since effluent flows underground | Effluent needs to be adequately pre-treated before infiltration |
| Low maintenance requirements | Groundwater levels must be as deep as possible to minimise the risk of contamination |
| It may negatively affect soil and groundwater properties |
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