Director Babcock details wastewater treatment progress at Sand Island Plant in Hawaii

The Honolulu City Council convened on May 30, 2025, to discuss critical issues surrounding wastewater treatment, particularly focusing on the Sand Island Treatment Plant. Roger Babcock, the Director of the Department of Environmental Services, provided insights into the current wastewater treatment regulations and the ongoing upgrades at the facility.

Babcock emphasized that wastewater treatment is primarily governed by the federal Clean Water Act, which mandates secondary treatment to ensure the removal of contaminants such as suspended solids and biochemical oxygen demand (BOD). He explained that secondary treatment is essential for maintaining water quality and protecting aquatic life, as it significantly reduces harmful pollutants before discharge into the ocean or other bodies of water.

Currently, all treatment plants in Honolulu, except for Sand Island, utilize secondary treatment. The Sand Island facility is undergoing upgrades, with phase one nearing completion and expected to enhance its treatment capacity significantly. Babcock noted that the plant currently operates under primary treatment standards, which require only a 30% removal of BOD, compared to the 85% required under secondary treatment.

Council members raised concerns about the potential health impacts of continuing with primary treatment at Sand Island. Babcock acknowledged the importance of understanding the scientific data regarding the environmental effects of wastewater discharge. He mentioned that while there have been no reported health cases directly linked to the lack of secondary treatment at Sand Island, ongoing monitoring and studies are crucial for ensuring public safety and environmental protection.

The discussion also touched on alternative treatment methods and the possibility of seeking waivers from federal secondary treatment requirements. Some council members expressed the need for thorough research and data analysis before making any decisions that could affect the ocean ecosystem.

In conclusion, the council's deliberations highlighted the importance of adhering to federal regulations while exploring innovative solutions for wastewater treatment. The ongoing upgrades at Sand Island are expected to improve water quality and align with environmental standards, ensuring the health of both the community and the surrounding marine environment.