Process engineering of combined sewer overflows (CSOs) and stormwater runoff (SWR) from urban areas and highways have been central activities for the SPN-Group for several years. Focal points within these areas have been devoted to investigating and modeling the biological and chemical processes of the overflow and runoff, treatment hereof and their impacts on the receiving environment. The applications of the research have generally emphasized prediction of pollutant loads, treatment, receiving water impacts and process control:

Combined sewer overflows (CSOs): Pollutant loads and receiving water impacts and modeling

Stormwater runoff (SWR): Pollutant loads and design of BMPs (Best Management Practices) for treatment and mitigation of stormwater runoff from urban areas and highways

The results of the research are published internationally as well as in a great number of reports from the Danish Environmental Protection Agency.

The most recent activity within this research area has focus on wet detention ponds for pollutant removal from urban and highway runoff. The combined design and performance of a treatment and recreational element for “water in the city” is emphasized. These studies aim at developing a conceptual understanding of the governing physico-chemical and biological processes that occur in the pond. The ultimate goal is to apply this knowledge via a process model for design and performance of wet detention ponds in a sustainable and efficient way.