Environmental protection exam materials

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【I】 Public Policies: Interim Provisions on the System of Registered Environmental Protection Engineers, Environmental Protection Law of the People’s Republic of China, Regulations on Environmental Protection Management for Construction Projects, Provisions on the Management of Registered Engineers in Surveying and Design, Measures for the Environmental Protection Inspection upon Completion of Construction Projects, Provisions on Environmental Protection Design for Construction Projects, etc. 【1】 What is the purpose of implementing the system of professional qualifications for registered environmental protection engineers in China? Article 1 of the Interim Provisions on the System for Registered Environmental Protection Engineers: These provisions are formulated in order to strengthen the management of professionals engaged in environmental protection engineering design, ensure the quality of such projects, and safeguard the public interest as well as the safety of people’s lives and property. They are based on laws and regulations such as the Building Law of the People’s Republic of China and the Regulations on the Management of Surveying and Design Work for Construction Projects, as well as relevant provisions regarding the system of professional qualification certificates. 【2】What is the scope of practice for registered environmental engineers? Article 26 of the Interim Provisions on the System of Registered Environmental Protection Engineers: Scope of practice for registered environmental protection engineers: (1) Design of environmental protection-related projects ； (II) Engineering technical consultation in environmental protection ； (III) Tendering and procurement consultation for environmental protection professional engineering equipment ； (IV) Project management of environmental protection professional projects ； (5) Provide guidance and supervision over the construction of design projects in this field ； (6) Other tasks specified by the relevant departments of the State Council. 【3】 What are the conditions under which a registered environmental engineer’s registration certificate and practice seal become invalid? Article 20 of the Interim Provisions on the System of Registered Environmental Protection Engineers: The registration certificate and practice seal of a registered environmental protection engineer shall become invalid under any of the following circumstances: (1) The employer goes bankrupt ； (II) The employing entity has had its business license revoked ； (III) The employing unit has had its engineering design qualification certificate revoked ； (IV) Termination of the labor or employment relationship with the employer ； (5) The registration validity period has expired and no renewal has been carried out ； (6) Loss of capacity to act, death, or declaration of disappearance ； (7) Other circumstances under which registration becomes invalid. 【4】What are the rights and obligations of registered environmental engineers? Article 33 of the Interim Provisions on the System of Registered Environmental Protection Engineers: Registered environmental protection engineers enjoy the following rights: (1) The right to use the title of registered environmental protection engineer ； (II) Engage in professional activities within the prescribed scope and fulfill the corresponding job responsibilities ； (III) Keep and use one’s own registration certificate and practice seal ； (IV) Explain and defend one’s own activities in the field of engineering design ； (5) Pursuing continuing education ； (VI) Receive labor remuneration commensurate with professional responsibilities ； (7) File a complaint against acts that infringe upon the interests of this **. Article 34 of the Interim Provisions on the System of Registered Environmental Protection Engineers: Registered environmental protection engineers shall fulfill the following obligations: (1) Comply with laws, regulations, and relevant management provisions ； (II) Implementation of technical standards and specifications ； (III) Ensure the quality of the outcomes of professional activities and assume corresponding responsibilities ； (IV) Pursue continuing education to strive to improve professional standards ； (5) Sign and affix the professional seal to the main design documents prepared in the course of one’s professional activities ； (6) Keeping confidential the **secrets** known in the course of professional activities, as well as the commercial and technical secrets of others ； (7) One shall not permit others to practice under one’s own name ； (8) Practice within the scope of practice stipulated for this profession and within the scope of business of the employing entity ； (IX) Assist the registration authority in carrying out relevant work. 【5】What are the regulations regarding the registration period for registered engineering consultants in survey and design? Regulations on the Management of Registered Engineers in Survey and Design: Article 10: The registration certificate and practice seal are the credentials for registered engineers to practice their profession, and they shall be kept and used by the registered engineer themselves. The validity period of the registration certificate and practice seal is 3 years. Article 12: The registration period for registered engineers is 3 years. If they wish to continue practicing after the expiration of this period, they must apply for renewal of registration in accordance with the procedures specified in Article 7 of these regulations, 30 days prior to the expiration date. 【6】What are the provisions in the Environmental Protection Law of the People’s Republic of China regarding the supervision and management of environmental protection efforts? Article 7 of the Environmental Protection Law of the People’s Republic of China: The administrative department in charge of environmental protection under the State Council shall exercise unified supervision and management over environmental protection efforts across the country. The environmental protection administrative departments of local people’s governments at the county level and above are responsible for exercising unified supervision and management over environmental protection efforts within their respective jurisdictions. **The marine administrative departments, port supervision agencies, fisheries and port management authorities, military environmental protection departments, as well as public security, transportation, railway, and civil aviation management departments at all levels, carry out supervision and management of environmental pollution prevention and control in accordance with the relevant laws. The administrative departments in charge of land, minerals, forestry, agriculture, and water resources at the people’s government level at or above the county level exercise supervision and management over the protection of these resources in accordance with the relevant laws. 【7】What provisions does the Regulations on Environmental Protection Management for Construction Projects make regarding the pollution control facilities for such projects? Chapter 3: Construction of Environmental Protection Facilities, Regulations on Environmental Protection Management for Construction Projects: Article 16 The environmental protection facilities that need to be constructed as part of a construction project must be designed, constructed, and put into use simultaneously with the main project. Article 17: For the preliminary design of a construction project, an environmental protection section shall be prepared in accordance with the requirements of environmental protection design specifications. Based on the approved environmental impact assessment report or environmental impact statement for the project, the environmental protection section shall specify the measures to prevent environmental pollution and ecological damage, as well as the estimated costs for environmental protection facilities. Article 18: After the main structure of a construction project is completed and trial production is to be carried out, the environmental protection facilities installed as part of that project must be put into trial operation simultaneously with the main structure. Article 19 During the trial production phase of a construction project, the project owner shall monitor the operation of environmental protection facilities as well as the impact of the project on the environment. Article 20: After the completion of a construction project, the project owner shall apply to the environmental protection administrative department that approved the environmental impact report, environmental impact form, or environmental impact registration form for that project, for the completion inspection of the environmental protection facilities that need to be constructed as part of the project. The completion inspection of environmental protection facilities shall be carried out simultaneously with the completion inspection of the main project. For construction projects that require trial production, the project owner shall, within 3 months from the date on which the project starts trial production, apply to the environmental protection administrative department that approved the environmental impact report, environmental impact form, or environmental impact registration form for that project, for the completion inspection of the environmental protection facilities that need to be installed as part of the project. Article 21 For construction projects that are built in phases and put into production or use in phases, their corresponding environmental protection facilities shall be inspected and accepted in phases. Article 22 The administrative department in charge of environmental protection shall complete the acceptance inspection within 30 days as of the date it receives the application for the completion acceptance of environmental protection facilities. Article 23 A construction project may be put into formal production or use only after the environmental protection facilities required for it have passed the acceptance inspection. 【8】What is the specific meaning of the \"three simultaneities\" principle for pollution control facilities in construction projects? Article 26 of the Environmental Protection Law of the People’s Republic of China: Facilities for pollution control in construction projects must be designed, constructed, and put into use simultaneously with the main project. Facilities for pollution control must pass the inspection by the environmental protection administrative department that originally approved the environmental impact report before the construction project can be put into operation or use. Facilities for pollution control shall not be removed or left idle without authorization; if removal or idling is truly necessary, the consent of the local environmental protection administrative department must be obtained. 【9】What is the scope of environmental protection completion inspection for construction projects? Article 4 of the Measures for the Environmental Protection Acceptance upon Completion of Construction Projects: The scope of environmental protection acceptance upon completion of construction projects includes: (1) All environmental protection facilities related to the construction project, including the engineering works, equipment, installations, and monitoring methods built or installed for pollution control and environmental protection, as well as all ecological protection facilities ； (II) The environmental impact report (form), or the environmental impact registration form, as well as other various environmental protection measures required to be taken as specified in the relevant project design documents. 【10】According to the Provisions on Environmental Protection Design for Construction Projects, what are the main contents of the environmental protection section in the preliminary design stage? Article 8 of the “Regulations on Environmental Protection Design for Construction Projects”: The environmental protection section (chapter) in the preliminary design phase shall include the following contents: 1. Basis for environmental protection design ； II. Major pollution sources and the types, names, quantities, concentrations or intensities of major pollutants, as well as their emission methods ； III. Environmental protection standards to be adopted in the planning ； IV. Environmental protection engineering facilities, their brief treatment process flows, and expected outcomes ； V. Preventive measures taken against ecological changes caused by construction projects ； VI. Greening Design ； VII. Environmental Management Agencies and Staffing ； VIII. Environmental Monitoring Agencies ； IX. Estimated Investment in Environmental Protection ； X. Existing problems and suggestions. 【11】What principle regulations does the «Provisions on Environmental Protection Design for Construction Projects» set forth regarding site selection and general layout? Chapter 3 Site Selection and General Layout of the “Regulations on Environmental Protection Design for Construction Projects”: Article 10 The site selection or route determination for a construction project must take into full account the natural and social conditions of the area where the project will be built. It is necessary to conduct investigations and studies on factors such as the geography, topography, geology, hydrology, meteorology, historical sites, urban and rural planning, land use, industrial and agricultural layout, the current status of nature reserves and their development plans in the selected area. On the basis of gathering background information on basic environmental elements such as air quality, water quality, and soil conditions in that area, a comprehensive analysis and evaluation should be carried out to formulate the best planning and design solutions. Article 11: For construction projects that emit toxic and harmful wastewater, waste gas, waste residues (liquids), foul odors, noise, radioactive elements, or other such substances or factors, it is strictly prohibited to locate them within the areas designated by urban planning as residential zones, educational and cultural areas, water source protection areas, historic sites, scenic areas, hot springs, health resorts, and nature reserves. When selecting routes for railways, highways, etc., efforts should be made to minimize damage to and pollution of the natural ecosystem along the way. Article 12: Construction projects that emit toxic and harmful gases should be located on the upwind side of the area where residential communities are situated, in the direction with the lowest pollution factor ； Construction projects that discharge toxic and harmful wastewater should be located downstream of local drinking water sources ； The waste dump site should be kept at a specified distance from residential areas and natural water bodies. Article 13: The land for environmental protection facilities shall be designated simultaneously with the land for the main project. Article 14: A necessary sanitary protection distance shall be maintained between construction projects that generate toxic and harmful gases, dust, smoke, foul odors, noise, and other such substances or factors, and residential areas, and greening measures shall be taken. Article 15: In the overall layout of a construction project, subject to the needs of the main structures, facilities that pose the greatest pollution risk should be located away from non-polluting facilities. Thereafter, the appropriate locations for the remaining facilities should be determined in a way that minimizes mutual interference and pollution. Article 16: The administrative management and living facilities for new construction projects shall be located on the side close to the residential area, and shall serve as the non-expansion end of the construction project. Article 17: The main chimneys (exhaust stacks) of construction projects, flare facilities, storage facilities for toxic and hazardous raw materials and finished products, loading and unloading stations, etc., should be located on the downwind side of the prevailing wind direction in the plant area throughout the year. Article 18: New construction projects shall include a greening design, and the greening coverage rate may vary depending on the type of construction project. Construction projects within the city shall be carried out in accordance with the local requirements regarding greening plans. 【12】What clean production measures should enterprises adopt during technological transformation? Article 19: During the process of technological transformation, enterprises shall adopt the following clean production measures: (1) Use non-toxic, harmless, or low-toxicity and low-harmful raw materials to replace those that are highly toxic and cause serious harm ； (II) Adopt processes and equipment with high resource utilization rates and low pollutant generation, to replace those with low resource utilization rates and high pollutant generation ； (III) Comprehensive utilization or recycling of waste, wastewater, and excess heat generated during the production process ； (IV) Adopt pollution prevention and control technologies that can meet the **or locally prescribed pollutant emission standards as well as the targets for controlling the total amount of pollutants emitted. 【13】**How should units and professional technicians engaged in engineering design activities be managed? Chapter 2: Management of Qualifications and Licenses: Article 7 **A qualification management system shall be implemented for entities engaged in surveying and design activities for construction projects. The specific measures shall be formulated by the administrative department in charge of construction under the State Council in consultation with relevant departments of the State Council. Article 9 **A registration system for professional qualifications shall be implemented for technical personnel engaged in construction project surveying and design activities. Unregistered personnel engaged in construction project surveying and design shall not carry out such activities in the name of registered professionals. Article 11: The qualification certificates for construction project survey and design units, as well as the registration certificates for professional personnel, shall be issued uniformly by the construction administrative department under the State Council. 【14】What is the basis for preparing survey and design documents for construction projects? Article 25: The preparation of survey and design documents for construction projects shall be based on the following provisions: (1) Project approval documents ； (II) Urban planning ； (III) Mandatory standards for engineering construction ； (IV) **The specified requirements for the depth of investigation and design in construction projects. Professional construction projects in areas such as railways, transportation, and water resources should also be based on the requirements of relevant professional plans. 【15】What are the quality responsibilities and obligations of construction project design units? Chapter 3 Quality Responsibilities and Obligations of Survey and Design Units of the Regulations on Quality Management of Construction Projects: Articles 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 (omitted) [16] What are the provisions regarding the conduct of design bidding for construction projects in accordance with the law? Chapter 3 Bidding Article 25 A bidder is a legal person or other organization that responds to a tender call and participates in the bidding competition. Article 26: Bidders shall possess the capability to undertake the tendered project ； **Where relevant regulations or the tender documents specify the qualification requirements for bidders, the bidders must possess such specified qualifications. Article 27: Bidders shall prepare their bid documents in accordance with the requirements specified in the tender documents. The bid documents shall meet the substantive requirements and conditions set out in the tender documents. Article 28: The bidder shall deliver the bid documents to the bidding location before the deadline specified in the tender documents for submitting such documents. Upon receiving the tender documents, the tendering authority shall sign for receipt and keep them secure, without opening them. If the number of bidders is less than three, the tenderer shall conduct a new tender in accordance with this law. Article 29: Before the deadline specified in the tender documents for submitting tender documents, the bidder may supplement, modify, or withdraw the submitted tender documents, and shall notify the tenderer in writing. The supplementary and revised content constitutes part of the tender document. Article 30: If, based on the actual conditions of the project as specified in the tender documents, the bidder intends to subcontract some non-core and non-critical tasks of the awarded project after winning the bid, such intention shall be stated in the tender documents. Article 31: Two or more legal persons or other organizations may form a consortium to submit a joint bid as one bidder. All parties in the consortium shall possess the appropriate capabilities to undertake the tendered project ； **Where relevant regulations or the tender documents specify the qualification requirements for bidders, all parties in a consortium must possess the corresponding specified qualifications. A consortium composed of entities from the same specialty shall have its qualification level determined based on that of the entity with the lower qualification level. The parties to the consortium shall sign a joint bidding agreement, clearly specifying the tasks and responsibilities each party intends to undertake, and submit the joint bidding agreement together with the bidding documents to the tenderer. If a consortium wins the bid, its members shall jointly enter into a contract with the tenderer and bear joint and several liability to the tenderer for the project won through the bid. Article 32 Bidders shall not collude with each other regarding bid prices, nor shall they exclude other bidders from fair competition, thereby infringing upon the legitimate rights and interests of the tenderer or other bidders. Bidders shall not collude with the tenderer in bidding, thereby harming the interests of **, the public interest, or the legitimate rights and interests of others. Bidders are prohibited from seeking to win the bid by bribing the tenderer or members of the evaluation committee. Article 33: Bidders shall not submit bids at prices lower than the cost, nor shall they bid under someone else’s name or engage in other forms of fraud to secure a winning bid. 【17】What are the criteria that require bidding for engineering construction projects? Article 7: For various engineering construction projects falling within the scope specified in Articles 2 to 6 of these regulations, including project survey, design, construction, supervision, as well as the procurement of important equipment and materials related to project construction, bidding is required if one of the following criteria is met: (1) The estimated cost of a single construction contract is 2 million RMB or more ； (II) The procurement of important equipment, materials, and other goods, where the estimated value of a single contract is 1 million RMB or more ； (III) The procurement of services such as surveying, design, and supervision, where the estimated value of a single contract is 500,000 RMB or more ； (IV) The estimated cost of a single contract is below the standards specified in items (I), (II), and (III). However, the total investment amount for the project must be over 30 million RMB. 【18】What principles should the depth of preparation for scheme design, preliminary design, and construction drawing design documents comply with? Article 1.0.4: 1) The design documents shall meet the requirements for preparing the preliminary design documents ； Note: For bidding proposals, the depth of the design documents should meet the requirements specified in the bid document ； If the tender document does not specify otherwise, the level of detail in the design documents may refer to the relevant provisions of these regulations. 2) The preliminary design documents shall meet the requirements for preparing the construction drawing design documents. 3) The construction drawing design documents shall meet the requirements for the procurement of equipment and materials, the fabrication of non-standard equipment, and construction. In cases where a project is assigned to several design firms or where design work is subcontracted, the degree of interconnection between the design documents should meet the requirements of the design work carried out by each contracting or subcontracting party. 【19】At which stage is the design estimate prepared? What is included? 3.10.1 The design estimate is an important component of the preliminary design documents. 3.10.6 General budget estimate for construction projects. The general budget estimate document should include: 3.10.8 Contents of the budget estimation preparation notes 1) Project overview. 2) Basis for preparation. 3) Preparation method. 4) Other necessary explanations. There are 10 bases for preparing the budget estimate: 1 **Laws, regulations, and guidelines related to construction and cost management. 2 The design specifications for the approved construction project (or the approved feasibility study documents) and the relevant regulations of the competent authorities. 3 List of preliminary design projects. 4 Design drawings (or internal working sketches), written descriptions, and lists of major equipment that have been reviewed and signed by the various specialties involved, in order to prepare the design budget. 5) Current estimated quota (or budget quota, comprehensive budget quota – the same applies in this section), unit price lists, budget prices for materials and components, quota for project costs, and documents containing regulations on related expenses for local and competent authorities’ construction projects and specialized installation works. 6) Current rates regarding the original cost of equipment and shipping fees. 7) Current regulations regarding quotas, indicators, and prices for other expenses. 8) Natural conditions and construction conditions of the site. 9) Estimates, budgets, and technical-economic indicators of similar projects. 10) Other information on the project cost provided by the project owner. The design budget documents are divided into three types: the budget sheet for individual projects, the comprehensive budget sheet for specific projects, and the overall budget sheet for construction projects. The overall budget estimate is prepared by the unit responsible for the overall design of the construction project. Units that are responsible only for the design of individual projects and not for the overall design prepare only comprehensive cost estimates for those individual projects. The general budget document for a construction project should include: a preparation statement, a general budget table, comprehensive budget sheets for each individual project, a budget table for other costs associated with the project construction, and a summary table of the main building and installation materials. The overall budget document, when bound separately into a book, should be provided with a cover page, a signature page, and a table of contents. Contents of the budget preparation notes 1) Project overview. 2) Basis for preparation. 3) Preparation method. 4) Other necessary explanations. 20】What are the calculation methods for engineering design fees and fees for the design of non-standard equipment? 1.0.3 The fee for engineering design is calculated using the following formula: 1. Fee for engineering design = Base fee for engineering design × (1 ± Fluctuation range). 2. Base fee for engineering design = Basic design fee + Other design fees. 3. Basic design fee = Base fee for engineering design × Professional adjustment factor × Complexity adjustment factor × Additional adjustment factor. 1.0.4 Base fee for engineering design: The base fee for engineering design is the standard amount determined in accordance with these charging rules; the client and the designer negotiate to determine the actual fee for the engineering design within the specified fluctuation range. 1.0.5 Basic design fee: The basic design fee refers to the charge for preparing preliminary design documents and construction drawing documents as part of engineering design, along with services such as providing design technical explanations, resolving design-related technical issues during construction, and participating in commissioning tests and final acceptance inspections. 1.0.6 Other design fees: Other design fees refer to the charges incurred for providing relevant services based on the actual needs of the engineering design or as required by the client. These include overall design fees, coordination fees for the main design elements, fees for using standard or reused designs, fees for preparing design documents for non-standard equipment, fees for preparing construction drawings budgets, and fees for preparing as-built drawings. 1.0.7 Base fee for engineering design The base fee for engineering design is the price for delivering basic services. The base fee for engineering design is determined by referring to the \"Table of Base Fees for Engineering Design\" (Appendix 1); when the amount to be charged falls within two different value ranges, linear interpolation is used to determine the base fee for engineering design. 1.0.8 Fee amount for engineering design The fee amount for engineering design is the sum of the costs related to construction and installation work, the cost of purchasing equipment and tools, and the cost of joint commissioning, as indicated in the approved preliminary design estimate for the construction project. In projects that make use of existing equipment, the current price of similar equipment at the time the engineering design contract is signed is used as the basis for calculating the fees for the engineering design ； Although there are equipment for gradual mixing in the project, if the engineering design is carried out using the equipment specified in the contract, and the installation of the equipment as well as the process conditions meet the required standards, then the current price of that specified equipment shall be used as the basis for calculating the fees for the engineering design ； In projects that involve the use of imported equipment, the cost of such equipment in terms of its ex-ship price is converted into RMB to serve as the basis for calculating the fees for engineering design. 1.0.9 Adjustment coefficients for engineering design fees The adjustment coefficients for engineering design fee standards include: specialty adjustment coefficient, project complexity adjustment coefficient, and additional adjustment coefficient. 1 The professional adjustment coefficient is a factor used to adjust for the differences in engineering design complexity and workload among various professional development projects. When calculating engineering design fees, the professional adjustment coefficients are determined by referring to the \"Table of Professional Adjustment Coefficients for Engineering Design Fees\" (Appendix 2). 2 The engineering complexity adjustment factor is a coefficient used to adjust for the differences in engineering design complexity and workload among different construction projects within the same specialty. The complexity level of a project is divided into three categories: normal, relatively complex, and complex, with adjustment coefficients of 0.85 for normal (Level I) respectively ； More complex (Grade II) 1.0 ； Complex (Grade III) 1.15. When calculating the engineering design fee, the level of complexity of the project is determined by referring to the \"Project Complexity Table\" in the relevant section. 3 The additional adjustment coefficient is a coefficient used to make supplementary adjustments for factors that cannot be addressed by the professional adjustment coefficient and the engineering complexity adjustment coefficient. The additional adjustment coefficients are listed in the general provisions and relevant sections respectively. When there are two or more additional adjustment coefficients, these coefficients cannot be multiplied together. Add up all the additional adjustment coefficients, subtract the number of such coefficients, and add 1; this value serves as the additional adjustment coefficient. The fee for the design of non-standard equipment is calculated using the following formula: Design fee for non-standard equipment = Cost estimate for the preliminary design of the non-standard equipment × Design rate for non-standard equipment. The cost estimate for the preliminary design represents the approximate cost of designing such equipment. The design rate for non-standard equipment is determined by referring to the \"Table of Design Rates for Non-Standard Equipment\" (Appendix 3). 【21】What clauses are included in a survey and design contract? Article 274 The terms of a survey and design contract include provisions regarding the deadline for submitting relevant basic materials and documents (including estimates and budgets), quality requirements, fees, and other conditions for cooperation. 【22】What qualifications must entities applying for the operational license for environmental pollution control facilities possess? Article 8: Entities applying for a Class A qualification certificate or a Class B qualification certificate shall meet the following conditions: (1) Possessing the status of an independent corporate legal person or the status of a corporate-managed institutional legal person ； (II) Full-time operational staff responsible for maintaining the normal operation of the facilities ； Entities applying for Class A qualification must have no less than 10 technical personnel with professional technical titles, of whom at least 5 must hold senior titles ； Units applying for Class B qualifications shall have no fewer than 6 technical personnel with professional and technical titles, of whom at least 3 shall hold senior titles. On-site managers and operators of facility operations must hold certification for training in the operation of pollution control facilities ； (III) Having at least one year of practical experience in operating environmental pollution control facilities, with the pollutants emitted by such facilities consistently meeting ** and the local environmental standards ； (IV) Meeting other conditions specified in the grading and classification standards for the qualification certificates for operating environmental pollution control facilities that are appropriate to its operational activities. 【II】Policies and regulations on water pollution control: The Water Pollution Prevention and Control Law of the People’s Republic of China; Technical Policies for Urban Sewage Treatment and Pollution Control. 【1】What is the scope of application of the Water Pollution Prevention and Control Law of the People’s Republic of China? Article 2 of the Water Law: This Law applies to the prevention and control of pollution of surface water bodies such as rivers, lakes, canals, channels, and reservoirs, as well as groundwater bodies, within the territory of the People’s Republic of China. The prevention and control of marine pollution is regulated by other laws and is not covered by this law. 【2】To prevent water pollution, what measures should waste-discharging entities take in the event of a pollution incident? Article 28 of the Water Law: In the event that a pollution-discharging entity experiences an accident or some other sudden incident that results in the discharge of pollutants in quantities exceeding normal levels, thereby causing or potentially causing water pollution incidents, it must immediately take emergency measures, notify the entities that may be affected by water pollution, and report to the local environmental protection authorities. In the event of a pollution accident caused by a vessel, it shall report to the nearest maritime administration authority to undergo investigation and handling. Those responsible for fishery pollution incidents shall be subject to investigation and handling by the fishery administration authorities. 【3】Which water bodies and areas prohibit the construction of new sewage outfalls? Article 27 of the Water Law: New sewage outfalls shall not be constructed within the protection zones of sources of drinking water, water bodies in scenic spots, important fishery waters, and other water bodies of special economic and cultural value. New sewage outfalls must be constructed near the protected area to ensure that its water bodies remain unpolluted. For discharge outlets that existed prior to the promulgation of this law and whose pollutant discharges exceed ** or the local standards, remediation shall be carried out ； Discharge outlets that threaten drinking water sources should be relocated. 【4】What activities are prohibited in surface water sources for drinking water? Article 20 of the Water Law: It is prohibited to discharge sewage into the waters of the first-class protection zones for surface water sources used for domestic drinking water. Tourism, swimming, and other activities that may pollute surface water sources used for drinking water are prohibited in the first-level protection zones of such sources. It is prohibited to construct or expand new construction projects that are unrelated to water supply facilities and water source protection within the first-level protection zone of surface water sources used for domestic drinking water. 【5】Under what circumstances may the pollution treatment facilities of a polluting entity be fined? Article 48 of the Water Law: Those who, in violation of the provisions of Paragraph 2 of Article 14 of this Law, deliberately fail to use water pollution control facilities properly, or remove or discontinue the use of such facilities without approval from the environmental protection authorities, thereby discharging pollutants beyond the specified standards, shall be ordered by the environmental protection authorities at the county level or above to resume normal use of the facilities or to reinstall them within a specified time limit, and shall also be fined. 【6】In the technical policies for urban sewage treatment, what was the average sewage treatment rate for cities across the country in 2010? Article 2.1 of the \"Technical Policies on Urban Sewage Treatment and Pollution Control\": By 2010, the average sewage treatment rate in cities and towns with administrative status across the country should be no less than 50%; the sewage treatment rate in cities should be no less than 60%, while that in key cities should be no less than 70%. When constructing each of the 【7】 urban sewage treatment plants, what are the requirements regarding the quality of industrial wastewater discharged into the urban sewage collection system? Article 2.2 of the \"Technical Policies for Urban Sewage Treatment and Pollution Prevention\": All cities and towns with administrative status across the country should plan to establish centralized urban sewage treatment facilities. Industrial wastewater that meets discharge standards should be incorporated into the urban sewage collection system and treated together with domestic sewage. Industrial wastewater discharged into the urban sewage collection system must have its heavy metals and toxic and harmful substances strictly controlled, and pre-treatment must be carried out on-site to ensure that it meets the relevant emission standards set by industry regulations. Wastewater discharged from dispersed population settlements such as residential areas that cannot be integrated into the urban sewage collection system, tourist attractions, resorts, sanatoriums, airports, railway stations, and economic development zones, as well as industrial wastewater from independent industrial and mining areas, must be treated on-site to meet regulatory standards before being discharged. 【8】What are the main technical and economic indicators for selecting urban sewage treatment processes? According to Article 4.1.2 of the \"Technical Policies for Urban Sewage Treatment and Pollution Control,\" the main technical and economic indicators for process selection include: investment per unit volume of water treated, investment required to reduce a certain amount of pollutants, electricity consumption and costs per unit volume of water treated, electricity consumption and costs required to reduce a certain amount of pollutants, land area required, reliability of operational performance, ease of management and maintenance, and overall environmental benefits. 【9】What are primary intensification treatment and secondary intensification treatment processes? Article 4.2.1 of the \"Technical Policies for Urban Sewage Treatment and Pollution Control\": For primary intensification treatment processes, techniques such as physicochemical intensification methods, the preliminary stage of the AB process, the preliminary stage of the hydrolytic-aerobic process, and high-load activated sludge processes should be selected based on the planning requirements and scale of construction for urban sewage treatment facilities. The secondary enhanced treatment process refers to a treatment method that not only effectively removes carbon-based pollutants but also possesses strong capabilities for phosphorus and nitrogen removal. In areas where controls are required for nitrogen and phosphorus pollutants, sewage treatment facilities with a daily treatment capacity of over 100,000 cubic meters generally employ technologies such as the A/O method and A/A/O method. Other equivalent technologies can also be carefully selected. For wastewater treatment facilities with a daily processing capacity of less than 100,000 cubic meters, in addition to the A/O and A/A/O methods, options such as the oxidation ditch method, SBR method, hydrolytic aerobic method, and biological filter method, which possess phosphorus and nitrogen removal capabilities, can also be employed. If necessary, physicochemical methods can also be employed to enhance phosphorus removal efficiency. 【10】How should the urban sewage treatment process be determined? Article 4.1.1 of the \"Technical Policies for Urban Sewage Treatment and Pollution Prevention\": The urban sewage treatment process should be selected after a comprehensive technical and economic comparison, taking into account factors such as the scale of treatment, the characteristics of the water quality, the environmental functions of the receiving water bodies, as well as local conditions and requirements. Wastewater treatment facilities with a daily treatment capacity of over 200,000 cubic meters (excluding 200,000 cubic meters per day) generally use the conventional activated sludge process. Other mature technologies can also be used. For wastewater treatment facilities with a daily processing capacity of 100,000 to 200,000 cubic meters, mature processes such as the conventional activated sludge process, oxidation ditch process, SBR process, and AB process can be employed. For wastewater treatment facilities with a daily processing capacity of less than 100,000 cubic meters, technologies such as the oxidation ditch process, SBR process, hydrolytic-aerobic process, AB process, and biological filter process can be used, as well as the conventional activated sludge process. 【11】What are the common treatment and disposal methods for sludge generated from urban sewage treatment? \"Technical Policies for Urban Sewage Treatment and Pollution Control\" 5 Sludge treatment: 5.1 The sludge generated from urban sewage treatment should be stabilized using methods such as anaerobic treatment, aerobic treatment, and composting. It can also be properly disposed of using sanitary landfilling. 5.2 For the sludge generated by secondary wastewater treatment facilities with a daily treatment capacity of over 100,000 cubic meters, anaerobic digestion should be employed for its treatment, and the biogas produced should be utilized comprehensively. The sludge generated by wastewater treatment facilities with a daily processing capacity of less than 100,000 cubic meters can be composted and utilized in various ways. In wastewater treatment facilities that employ technologies such as the delayed aeration oxidation ditch process and the SBR process, the sludge must be stabilized. In wastewater treatment facilities that employ primary physicochemical treatment, the sludge generated must be properly treated and disposed of. 5.3 The treated sludge that meets the requirements for stabilization and harmlessness can be used in agricultural fields ； Sludge that cannot be used in farmland should be disposed of through sanitary landfilling in accordance with relevant standards and requirements. 【12】What are the main treatment technologies for the reuse of wastewater after urban sewage treatment? Chapter 6 on Wastewater Reuse in the \"Technical Policies for Urban Sewage Treatment and Pollution Prevention\": 6.1 For wastewater reuse, advanced treatment techniques such as coagulation, filtration, disinfection, or natural purification can be employed, as well as ozone, activated carbon, and various membrane processes. 6.2 It is recommended that wastewater treatment facilities of all scales implement wastewater reuse in accordance with the principles of economic rationality and health and safety. Develop the use of reclaimed water in agricultural irrigation, green space watering, urban miscellaneous uses, ecological restoration, and industrial cooling. 【III】Standards and specifications for water pollution control: \"Standards for the environmental quality of surface water\" (GB3838--2002), \"Comprehensive standards for wastewater discharge\" (GB8978--1996), \"Standards for pollutant discharge from urban wastewater treatment plants\" (GB18918--2002), \"Code for design of outdoor drainage systems\" (GBJ14--87, revised in 1997), \"Design codes for wastewater reuse projects\" (GB50335--2002). 【1】What is the scope of application and the objectives of protection outlined in the \"Standards for the environmental quality of surface water\"? I. Scope of Application This standard specifies, in accordance with the functional classification and protection objectives of surface water environments, the parameters and limits for which water quality must be controlled, as well as the methods for water quality assessment, the analysis methods for these quality parameters, and the procedures for implementing and supervising these standards. This standard applies to surface water bodies such as rivers, lakes, canals, channels, and reservoirs that have functional uses within the territory of the People’s Republic of China. Water bodies with specific functions are subject to the corresponding professional water quality standards. 【2】How many categories are there for the functional zones of surface water bodies? What are the specific objects corresponding to each category? II. Classification of water body functions and standards (Classification of surface water bodies) Based on the environmental functions of surface water bodies and the objectives for their protection, they are divided into five categories according to the level of functionality: Category I is mainly suitable for source water and **natural reserves ； Category II is mainly applicable to the primary protection zones of surface water sources for centralized domestic drinking water, habitats for rare aquatic organisms, spawning areas for fish and shrimp, and feeding areas for juvenile fish ； Class III: Mainly applicable to fishery waters such as secondary protection zones for surface water sources of centralized drinking water, wintering areas for fish and shrimp, migration routes, and aquaculture areas, as well as swimming areas ； Class IV: Mainly suitable for general industrial water use areas and recreational water areas where there is no direct human contact ； Class V is mainly suitable for agricultural water use areas and waters with general landscape requirements. 【3】When surface water in the same water body is used for multiple purposes, what principles should be followed for determining the standard values? In line with the five functional categories of surface water mentioned above, the standard values for the basic parameters of surface water environmental quality are divided into five categories, with each functional category requiring compliance with the corresponding standard values. The standard values for water areas with higher functional categories are stricter than those for water areas with lower functional categories. Where the same water body has multiple uses, the standard value corresponding to the highest category of use shall be applied. Achieving the water area function and meeting the functional category standards mean the same thing. 【4】For wastewater discharged into which waters or seas are Level 1 and Level 2 discharge standards applicable respectively? For wastewater discharged into waters classified as Class III under GB 3838 (with the exception of designated protected areas and swimming zones), as well as into sea areas classified as Class II under GB 3097, the first-grade standards apply. Wastewater discharged into Class IV and V waters as specified in GB3838, as well as wastewater discharged into Class III sea areas as specified in GB3097, are subject to the secondary standard. 【5】The Comprehensive Wastewater Discharge Standards classify pollutants into two categories. What is the basis for this classification, and what do first-category pollutants and second-category pollutants mean? IV. Classification of pollutants (basis for classification) For Category 1 pollutants, regardless of the industry or method of wastewater discharge, as well as regardless of the functional category of the receiving water body, samples must be taken at the outlet of the workshop or the treatment facilities within it. The maximum allowable discharge concentration must meet the requirements of these standards (the outlets of tailing dams in the mining industry cannot be considered as workshop discharge outlets). For the second category of pollutants, samples are taken at the discharge outlets of the polluting entities, and the maximum allowable emission concentration must meet the requirements of these standards. 【6】What standards should be applied to industrial wastewater that does not have **industry-specific emission standards?** What principles are used to control its emissions? In accordance with the principle that **comprehensive emission standards** and **industry-specific emission standards** are not applied simultaneously, industrial wastewater for which no **industry-specific emission standards** exist shall be subject to the **Comprehensive Wastewater Discharge Standards** (GB8978－1996). 【7】What are the control items and classifications in the \"Emission Standards for Pollutants from Urban Sewage Treatment Plants\"? 1. Control items and classification: Based on the source and nature of pollution, pollutant control items are divided into two categories: basic control items and optional control items. The basic control items mainly include conventional pollutants that affect the water environment and can be removed by the general treatment processes in municipal wastewater treatment plants, as well as some Class 1 pollutants, totaling 19 items. The selected control items include pollutants that have a long-term impact on the environment or are highly toxic, totaling 43 items. 【8】Which pollutants are included in the basic control items for wastewater as specified in the \"Emission Standards for Pollutants from Urban Wastewater Treatment Plants\"? Table 1 Maximum allowable emission concentrations for key control parameters (average daily value), unit: mg/L. 【9】In the sludge treatment at municipal wastewater treatment plants, what level of organic matter decomposition is required to achieve a state of stability? Table 5 Control indicators for sludge stabilization 【10】 How does the total variation coefficient of domestic wastewater volume change as the average daily flow increases? Average daily pollutant flow rate (L/s): 5, 15, 40, 70, 100, 200, 500, ≥1000. Total coefficient of variation: 2.3, 2.0, 1.8, 1.7, 1.6, 1.5, 1.4, 1.3. [11] Retention factor n. What does it mean? \"Code for Design of Outdoor Sewerage Systems\" (GBJ14--87, revised in 1997): n0 – interception ratio, that is, the ratio of the amount of rainwater intercepted at the point when overflow begins to the amount of wastewater from non-rainy periods ； Interception ratio n. It should be determined through calculation based on factors such as the water quality and quantity of dry-flow wastewater, its overall coefficient of variation, water hygiene requirements, as well as hydrological and meteorological conditions; generally, a value of 1 to 5 is used. 【12】What types of wastewater require a water seal well in the collection and transportation system? What are the main design parameters? \"Code for Design of Outdoor Drainage\" (GBJ14--87, revised in 1997) VI. Water seal wells: When wastewater generated can produce gases that may cause explosions or fires, water seal wells must be installed in the pipeline system. Water seal wells should be installed at the outlets where the aforementioned wastewater is generated, as well as at appropriate intervals along the main pipes. The water seal depth should be 0.25 m; ventilation facilities should be installed above the well, and a sludge sump should be provided at the bottom of the well. 【13】How many inverted siphons should generally be installed when passing through a river channel? How should the main design parameters be selected? \"Code for Design of Outdoor Drainage Systems\" (GBJ14--87, revised in 1997) Section X: Pipe Jumps – Main design parameters: For pipe jumps that pass through rivers, it is generally advisable to have no fewer than two such pipes ； One can be used through inverted siphons in valleys, dry gullies, or small rivers. The design of inverted siphons shall meet the following requirements: (1) The minimum pipe diameter should be 200 mm ； (2) The designed flow velocity inside the pipe should be greater than 0.9 m/s, and it should also be higher than the flow velocity in the inlet pipe. When the designed flow velocity cannot meet these requirements, regular flushing measures should be implemented, with the flow velocity during flushing being no less than 1.2 m/s. (3) The distance from the top of the inverted siphon to the planned river bottom should generally be no less than 0.5m. When passing through a waterway used for navigation, its position and the distance from the top of the pipe to the planned river bottom must be determined in consultation with the local navigation authorities, and signs should be installed. Measures to prevent erosion of the riverbed should be considered in cases where erosion occurs ； 【14】What issues should be considered in the design of sewage reclamation plants and pipelines? \"Code for Design of Sewage Reuse Engineering\" (GB50335--2002) IV. Safety Measures and Monitoring and Control 1. The design and operation of the sewage reuse system shall ensure stable water quality, reliable water supply volume, and safe water use. 2. The reclaimed water plant and various users should maintain a smooth information transmission system. 3. Reclaimed water pipes must not be connected to drinking water pipes. 4. When the recycled water pipes are buried parallel to the water supply pipes and drainage pipes, the horizontal clear distance between them shall not be less than 0.5 m ； When buried intersectingly, the reclaimed water pipeline should be located below the water supply pipeline and above the drainage pipeline, with a clear distance of not less than 0.5 m in each case. 5. The power supply for reclaimed water plants that must operate continuously should be designed for Class I load. 6. The main facilities of the reclaimed water plant should be equipped with fault alarm devices. 7. Water quality monitoring stations and control gates should be installed at the industrial wastewater inlet in the reclaimed water source collection system. 8. Reclaimed water plants and users shall install monitoring facilities for water quality and water-using equipment, and the monitoring items and frequencies shall comply with the provisions of relevant standards. 9. Sampling devices should be installed at the main water treatment structures in the reclaimed water plant as well as at the user water consumption facilities. Metering devices should be designed on the pipelines leaving the plant and on the pipelines leading to each user’s premises. 10. Operators of recycling system management should receive specialized training. 【15】In the \"Design Code for Sewage Reuse Projects\", what regulations should be followed regarding the design water quality of reclaimed water sources? I. 3. Design water quality of reclaimed water sources The design water quality of reclaimed water sources should be determined comprehensively based on the existing water quality in the sewage collection area and the expected changes in water quality. The water quality of reclaimed water sources shall meet the requirements of the current \"Quality Standards for Wastewater Discharged into Urban Sewers\" (CJ3082), \"Allowable Concentrations of Hazardous Substances in the Inflow to Biological Treatment Facilities\" (GBJ14), and \"Comprehensive Wastewater Discharge Standards\" (GB8978). When the water source for a reclaimed water plant is secondary-treated wastewater, the design water quality can be determined by referring to the discharge standards for secondary treatment plants. 【16】What are the basic unit technologies for advanced treatment of urban wastewater? \"Code for Design of Sewage Reuse Projects\" (GB50335--2002) III. Design of Reuse Treatment Processes and Structures 1. For the reuse treatment of municipal sewage, the following basic processes are recommended: secondary treatment – disinfection ； Secondary treatment — filtration — disinfection ； Secondary treatment — Coagulation — Sedimentation (clarification, air flotation) — Filtration — Disinfection ； Secondary treatment – microporous filtration – disinfection. Unit technologies include: activated carbon adsorption, ozone-activated carbon, ammonia removal, ion exchange, ultrafiltration, nanofiltration, reverse osmosis, membrane bioreactors, aerated biological filters, ozone oxidation, natural purification systems, etc. 【17】What are the main approaches to wastewater reuse? Table 1 Categories of Urban Sewage Reuse 【IV】Professional Knowledge of Water Pollution Control I. Physicochemical Treatment of Sewage – Sedimentation 【1】Explain the functions of sedimentation tanks, their types, and the characteristics of different types of sedimentation tanks. The function of a sedimentation tank is to remove inorganic particles with a higher specific gravity (such as silt and cinder, whose relative density is about 2.65). Commonly used grit chambers include horizontal flow grit chambers, aeration grit chambers, Dor grit chambers, and bell-type grit chambers. Actual view of the aeration grit chamber – sedimentation 【2】How many types can sedimentation tanks be classified into based on their inlet and outlet arrangements? Explain the characteristics of various types. Based on the different process arrangements – primary sedimentation tanks and secondary sedimentation tanks. Classified by the direction of water flow, sedimentation tanks come in three types: horizontal flow, radial flow, and vertical flow. Each sedimentation tank consists of five zones, namely the inlet zone, sedimentation zone, buffer zone, sludge zone, and outlet zone. Inclined plate (tube) sedimentation tanks are a new type of sedimentation tank that relies on the theory of \"shallow sedimentation\"; inclined plates or honeycomb inclined tubes are installed in these tanks to improve sedimentation efficiency. It has advantages such as high precipitation efficiency, short residence time, and low space requirement. Inclined plate (tube) sedimentation tanks are used as primary sedimentation tanks for urban wastewater; they offer stable treatment performance and require minimal maintenance ； Inclined plate (tube) sedimentation tanks are more commonly used in the treatment of industrial wastewater, because during the secondary sedimentation of municipal sewage, when the solid load is too high, the treatment efficiency becomes less stable and their ability to withstand shock loads is poor. Based on the relative movement direction of the water flow and the sludge, inclined plate (tube) sedimentation tanks can be divided into three types: countercurrent, co-current, and lateral flow. In urban sewage treatment, the upflow countercurrent inclined plate (tube) sedimentation tank is primarily used. Air flotation [3] What is the basic principle of dissolved air flotation in wastewater treatment? Air flotation methods can be divided into diffused air flotation, dissolved air flotation (including vacuum flotation), and electrolytic flotation: Supersaturated air in water is released in the form of tiny bubbles when the pressure is reduced, allowing impurity particles in the water to get attached to these bubbles and rise to the surface. If wastewater is aerated at atmospheric pressure and then the dissolved air is forced to escape under vacuum conditions, it is called vacuum flotation. If air is first pressurized to dissolve in water, forming an air-saturated solution, and then the pressure is reduced to normal levels to cause the air to precipitate out, this process is known as pressurized dissolved air flotation ； Ion exchange [4]: Which types of pollutants in wastewater can cation exchange resins and anion exchange resins be used to remove, respectively? Ion exchange is achieved through ion diffusion, where the freely movable ions carried by the exchange resin interact with the ions in the solution to be treated. The driving force behind ion exchange is the concentration difference between ions and the affinity of the functional groups on the exchanger for those ions; this is the basic principle of ion exchange. Ion exchangers are the most fundamental substances for achieving exchange functions. Ion exchangers can be classified into inorganic ion exchangers and organic ion exchangers based on their material. Its exchange capacity can be further divided into various types such as strongly alkaline, weakly alkaline, strongly acidic, and weakly acidic. Resins have different affinities for various ions; they preferentially select those ions with a strong affinity, forming strong bonds with them to prevent leakage. Membrane separation technology 【5】 What are the common membrane separation techniques used in wastewater treatment, and what is their basic principle? In recent years, the application of membrane technology in the field of environmental protection has been increasing. Membrane separation technologies include electrodialysis, reverse osmosis, ultrafiltration, nanofiltration, microfiltration, natural dialysis, and thermodeionsis; they are methods that utilize the selective permeability of membranes for separation and concentration. Electrodialysis, reverse osmosis, and ultrafiltration are commonly used membrane separation techniques in wastewater treatment. In physical chemistry, the phenomenon of solutes passing through a membrane is called “dialysis”. Electrodenalysis For aqueous solutions containing electrolytes, the solute is an ion and the solvent is water. The process commonly referred to as electrodialysis is the selective migration of ions in a solution through an ion exchange membrane under the influence of a direct current electric field. An ion exchange membrane can be understood as a film-like form of ion exchange resin. During electrodialysis, the membrane does not function by exchanging ions in the solution as ion exchange resins do; instead, it selectively permits the passage of ions with different electrical charges, which is why ion exchange membranes do not require regeneration. Obviously, the selective permeability of the ion exchange membrane is key to the desalination and concentration processes in electrodialysis. The selective permeability of ion exchange membranes is mainly determined by the membrane’s structure. Electrodialysis is widely used for water desalination, such as seawater desalination, brackish water desalination, and fresh water desalination. During the electrodialysis desalination process, hardness and alkalinity in water are removed simultaneously. Electrodialysis can also be used to remove fluoride, nitrates, and arsenides from water. Schematic diagram of electrodialysis for seawater desalination. Coagulation [6] What is the basic principle of coagulation treatment of wastewater and what are its main influencing factors? What are the main characteristics and influencing factors of chemical flocculation? The purpose of coagulation is to add certain chemicals to water (commonly known as coagulants and coagulant aids), so that the colloidal particles in the water, which are difficult to precipitate, can aggregate with each other and grow large enough to settle naturally. This method is called coagulation sedimentation. Coagulation sedimentation is one of the most commonly used methods in water treatment and wastewater treatment. Coagulation treatment includes two stages: coagulation and flocculation. During the coagulation phase, the colloidal double layer in water is compressed and loses its stability, resulting in the formation of smaller particles ； During the flocculation stage, these particles aggregate with one another (or with the assistance of the adsorption and bridging effect of polymeric substances) to form large particle flocs, which can be separated from the water under certain conditions. Factors affecting it: water quality, pH, water temperature, hydraulic conditions, and the time of coagulation reaction. Chemical precipitation 【7】 Which types of pollutants are mainly treated using the hydroxide precipitation method and the sulfide precipitation method? Adding a certain chemical to wastewater causes it to react with certain dissolved substances in the water, resulting in the formation of insoluble salt precipitates that settle out, thereby reducing the concentration of these dissolved substances in the water. This method is known as chemical precipitation. Chemical precipitation is commonly used to treat wastewater containing toxic compounds such as mercury, lead, copper, zinc, hexavalent chromium, sulfur, cyanide, fluoride, and arsenic. Depending on the precipitant used, the main chemical precipitation methods typically include hydroxide precipitation, sulfide precipitation, carbonate precipitation, barium salt precipitation, and others. The hydroxide precipitation method uses hydroxides as precipitants to convert many metal ions in industrial wastewater into hydroxide precipitates, thereby removing them from the water. This method is generally known as the hydroxide precipitation method. In the hydroxide precipitation method, the logarithm of the metal ion concentration generally shows a linear relationship with the pH value. Hydroxides of metals such as Zn and Al are amphoteric oxides; at excessively high pH values, they dissolve again. Therefore, controlling the pH value is an important operational condition; for example, when treating wastewater containing Zn2+, the pH value should be maintained within the range of 9–11. Electrolysis method [8] What is the basic principle of electrolytic treatment of wastewater? The process in which an electrolyte solution undergoes electrochemical reactions under the influence of an electric current is called electrolysis. During the electrolysis process, oxidation-reduction reactions occur simultaneously at the parts of the solution in contact with the positive and negative electrodes of the power supply. When certain wastewater is electrolyzed, the toxic substances in the wastewater lose electrons at the anode (or gain electrons at the cathode), thereby being oxidized (or reduced) into new products. These new products may precipitate on the electrode surface or at the bottom of the reaction tank; in some cases, they form gases that escape, thereby reducing the concentration of toxic substances in the wastewater. This method of treating certain wastewater by utilizing the principles of electrolysis is known as the electrolytic process in wastewater treatment. II. Biological treatment methods for wastewater: Activated sludge process, biological contact oxidation process, natural wastewater treatment techniques, nitrogen and phosphorus removal technologies. [9] What is the basic principle behind the use of the activated sludge process to remove organic pollutants from water? The activated sludge process is the most widely used aerobic biological treatment technique for wastewater; it consists mainly of an aeration tank, a secondary sedimentation tank, an aeration system, and a sludge return system. After passing through the primary sedimentation tank, the wastewater enters the aeration tank together with the activated sludge returned from the bottom of the secondary sedimentation tank. Through aeration, the activated sludge remains in a suspended state and comes into full contact with the wastewater. The suspended solids and colloidal substances in the wastewater are adsorbed by the activated sludge, while the soluble organic compounds in the wastewater are used by the microorganisms in the activated sludge as nutrients for their own reproduction; they are metabolized into biological cells and oxidized to form end products (mainly CO2). Insoluble organic matter must first be converted into soluble organic matter before it can be metabolized and utilized. The wastewater is thus purified. The purified wastewater is separated from the activated sludge in a secondary sedimentation tank, and the water from the upper layer is discharged ； A portion of the separated and concentrated sludge is returned to the aeration tank to maintain a certain concentration of active sludge there, while the remaining part constitutes excess sludge, which is discharged from the system. 【10】What are the main factors affecting the activated sludge reaction? Temperature, BOD sludge load rate, nutrients, dissolved oxygen, pH value, toxic substances. Temperature: Most activated sludge microorganisms are thermophilic, with an optimal temperature range of 15–30°C. For safety reasons, it is generally believed that the highest and lowest operating temperatures for activated sludge treatment plants are 35°C and 10°C respectively. For example, when the temperature is above 35°C or below 10°C, the metabolic functions of microorganisms regarding organic matter are affected to some extent. In the northern regions of our country, large and medium-sized activated sludge treatment systems can also be constructed outdoors, but small activated sludge treatment systems are better built indoors. When the temperature is above 35°C or below 5°C, the reaction rate drops to its lowest level, and the reaction may even come to a complete stop. 【11】Briefly describe several typical process flows of the activated sludge method and their characteristics. Push-flow activated sludge process, completely mixed activated sludge process, staged aeration activated sludge process, adsorption-reactivation activated sludge process, delayed aeration activated sludge process, high-load activated sludge process, oxidation ditch process, sequential batch activated sludge process. Advantages of the Extended aeration activated sludge process (also known as complete oxidation activated sludge process, abbreviated as EAAS): 1. Low organic load, with the sludge remaining in a state of endogenous metabolism; 2. Little excess sludge is generated, and the sludge is stable, eliminating the need for further digestion. This process can be regarded as an integrated treatment method for wastewater and sludge. 3. This process also has the advantages of high stability in water treatment, strong adaptability to shock loads from wastewater, and the elimination of the need for a primary sedimentation tank. Process disadvantages: The main drawbacks are the large volume of the tank, long aeration time, high construction and operating costs, as well as the need for significant amounts of land. This process is suitable for small-town sewage and industrial wastewater where high standards are required for water quality treatment, and where separate sludge treatment is not appropriate. The aeration tanks used in the process are all fully mixed or plug-flow type. 【12】What is the activated sludge index (SVI), and what is its significance? In the activated sludge process, what do MLSS and MLVSS represent respectively? What are the commonly used units? Settling properties of activated sludge and their evaluation indicators: (1) Sludge settling ratio (Settling Velocity), abbreviated as SV (%), also known as the 30-min settling rate. The percentage, expressed as %, of the volume of the sediment sludge formed after the mixture is left to stand in a measuring cylinder for 30 minutes, relative to the original volume of the mixture. The SV value can relatively reflect the sludge concentration as well as the coagulation and sedimentation properties of the sludge; it can be used to control the amount of sludge discharged and to detect early signs of sludge bulking. It is generally believed that the normal range for the SV value is 20% to 30%. Due to the simplicity and speed of the SV value measurement method, it has become one of the important indicators for assessing the quality of activated sludge. (2) The sludge volume index is abbreviated as SVI (ml/g), also referred to as the sludge index. The physical meaning of this parameter is the volume, in mL, of the settled sludge formed per gram of dry sludge, after the mixed liquid taken from the outlet of the aeration tank has been allowed to settle for 30 minutes. The SVI value can reflect the flocculation and sedimentation properties of activated sludge; for domestic and municipal wastewater, this value is preferably within the range of 70 to 100. Its formula is as follows: Performance indicators of activated sludge; Indicators of the microbial amount of activated sludge in the mixture. Maintaining a certain concentration of activated sludge in the mixture is achieved through the growth of activated sludge in the aeration tank, as well as appropriate recirculation and discharge from the secondary sedimentation tank. The following two indicators are used to represent and control the activated sludge concentration in the mixture. (1) Mixed liquor suspended solids concentration, abbreviated as MLSS (mg/L of mixed liquor). (2) Mixed liquor volatile suspended solids concentration, abbreviated as MLVSS (mg/L of mixed liquor). 【13】What is biological contact oxidation? What are its main advantages and disadvantages? Biological contact oxidation, also known as submerged biological filters, involves the use of fillers within a reactor; oxygenated wastewater comes into contact with these fillers covered with biofilms, and through the action of these biofilms, the wastewater is purified. 1. Advantages 1) High volume capacity, short processing time, and reduced space requirement ； 2) High biological activity ； 3) High microbial concentration ； 4) Low sludge production, no need for sludge recirculation ； 5) The effluent water quality is good and stable; power consumption is low, membrane attachment is easy, and intermittent operation is possible ； 6) There is no sludge bulking problem. 2. Disadvantages 1) The amount of biofilm on the filler varies depending on the BOD load. A high BOD load results in a large number of biofilms, and vice versa. Therefore, the biomass and the efficiency of the device cannot be arbitrarily adjusted by changing operating conditions. 2) When honeycomb packing is used, if the load is too high, the biofilm becomes thick, leading to easy clogging of the packing. Therefore, load limits and necessary anti-clogging flushing measures must be in place. 3) A large number of metazoa are produced (such as rotifers, etc.). If the biofilm detaches in large pieces instantaneously, it can easily affect the quality of the effluent water. 4) Composite contact fillers can sometimes affect aeration and mixing. Natural wastewater treatment technologies 【14】 What are the main types of artificial wetlands? Based on the flow pattern, artificial wetlands for treating wastewater can be divided into two main types: surface flow and subsurface flow. (1) Surface-flow wetlands: Water flows through dense growths of aquatic (marshy) plants, with a free surface. (2) Underground flow wetland: Water percolates through a shallow, porous filter bed covered with vegetation in the form of subsurface flow. 【15】What are the main types and principles of stabilization ponds? A stabilization pond is a natural biological wastewater treatment facility that is simple to construct, easy to manage, and provides stable and reliable treatment results. In the pond, due to the long residence time of the wastewater, its organic matter is biodegraded through the decompositional metabolism of various bacteria. Stabilization ponds can be classified by function into aerobic ponds, facultative stabilization ponds, anaerobic stabilization ponds, aeration stabilization ponds, and high-efficiency stabilization ponds. (1) Aerobic stabilization pond: The water depth in an aerobic pond is generally around 0.5 m, allowing sunlight to reach the bottom of the pond. Algae grow vigorously within it, photosynthesis is active, and the dissolved oxygen level in the water is very high. Aerobic microorganisms are active, resulting in a high BOD removal rate; over a retention time of 2–6 days, this rate can exceed 80%. A major characteristic of the purification process in aerobic stabilization ponds is the symbiosis between aerobic microorganisms and phytoplankton—algae. Algae use the sunlight that passes through to carry out photosynthesis, producing new algae and releasing oxygen into the water. Aerobic microorganisms use this oxygen to degrade organic matter, and the CO2 produced in this process is then utilized by algae in photosynthesis. 【16】What are the principles of biological nitrogen and phosphorus removal, the main factors affecting nitrogen and phosphorus removal, and the typical process flows for nitrogen and phosphorus removal? What are nitrification and denitrification? Nitrification process: The first step in the conversion of ammonia nitrogen is nitrification. The process by which nitrifying bacteria convert ammonia nitrogen into nitrate is called nitrification. Nitrification is a two-step process that involves two types of microorganisms: nitrite bacteria and nitrate bacteria. The carbon sources utilized by these bacteria are inorganic carbon such as CO32-, HCO3-, and CO2, rather than organic carbon. The first step is to convert ammonia nitrogen into nitrite; ammonia nitrogen is first converted into nitrite by nitrite-oxidizing bacteria. The conversion of nitrites to nitrates is carried out by nitrate bacteria. Nitrite bacteria and nitrate bacteria are collectively referred to as nitrifying bacteria. Nitrifying bacteria are chemolithoautotrophic organisms. The second step is the conversion of nitrite to nitrate. 【17】What are the commonly used chemicals for chemical phosphorus removal in wastewater? Chemical phosphorus removal is achieved by reacting coagulants with phosphates in wastewater to form insoluble phosphorus-containing compounds and flocs, thereby separating phosphorus from the wastewater. Common coagulants used for chemical phosphorus removal include lime (calcium salts), aluminum salts, iron salts, etc. (1) Phosphorus removal using lime: 5Ca2+ + 4OH– + 3HPO42– → Ca5(OH)(PO4)3↓ + 3H2O. (2) Phosphorus removal using aluminum salts: Aluminum sulfate is commonly used as a coagulant: Al2(SO4)3 + 2PO43– → 2AlPO4↓ + 3SO42–. (3) Phosphorus reduction using iron salts: The reaction between iron ions and phosphates is very similar to that between aluminum ions and phosphates. Commonly used iron-based coagulants in China include ferric chloride FeCl3 and ferrous sulfate FeSO4. Sludge treatment methods – Sludge dewatering [18] What are the main types of sludge dewatering equipment used in wastewater treatment plants? What are the main factors affecting its dehydration efficiency? The sludge generated during wastewater treatment has a water content of 97% to 99.6%; it is a loose structure of granular or flocculent materials in a fluid state, with a large volume that makes it difficult to handle and dispose of. Therefore, sludge dewatering is necessary in the treatment and disposal of sludge. Methods for sludge dewatering generally include natural drying, mechanical dewatering, sludge drying, and incineration. Dehydration machinery – belt filter presses, plate and frame filter presses (filter pressing for dehydration), centrifugal dehydrators, vacuum filters. Filter pressing for dehydration can be divided into two types: plate and frame filter pressing for dehydration and belt filter pressing for dehydration. The processing capacity of a belt filter press, or belt-type filter for dewatering, is determined by two parameters: one is the amount of sludge fed in, and the other is the solid load of the sludge. The amount of sludge fed in and the solid content of that sludge depend on the belt speed and filter belt tension of the drier, as well as the conditioning effect of the sludge; whereas belt speed, tension, and conditioning effects in turn depend on the desired level of dewatering, namely the solid content of the sludge cake and the solid recovery rate. Suitable for large-scale sewage treatment plants. The filtration capacity of plate and frame filter presses varies depending on factors such as the properties of the sludge, the thickness of the filter cake, the filtration pressure, the filtration time, and the type of filter cloth. Generally, it is necessary to use the sludge that is to be filtered and determine the appropriate capacity through tests on a testing machine; alternatively, similar empirical methods can be used for selection. When using a filter press to dewater municipal sludge, its filtration capacity is generally 2–10 kg of dry sludge per (m2•h). Centrifugal dewatering machines have the advantages of a compact design, few auxiliary components, operation in a sealed environment resulting in minimal odors, no need for filtering media, easy maintenance, and the ability to operate automatically and continuously over long periods of time. A centrifugal dehydrator is mainly composed of a drum and a screw conveyor with a hollow shaft. Suitable for large-scale sewage treatment plants – Sludge anaerobic digestion [19]. What are the basic principles and influencing factors of sludge anaerobic digestion? The theory of anaerobic digestion mechanisms can be divided into syllogism, disjunctive syllogism, and quadruple syllogism. Phase 1: Hydrolysis phase. Some facultative bacteria can secrete extracellular enzymes outside the cell ； Hydrolyze solid and colloidal macromolecules into soluble substances that can be absorbed by bacteria. Phase 2: Acid production phase. After completing hydrolysis, the facultative bacteria that carry out this process can take the hydrolyzed products into their cells to continue catabolic metabolism. The metabolites are mainly volatile fatty acids, volatile alcohols, and certain aldehyde compounds. Stage 3: Methane production stage. Methanogens play a major role at this stage. Due to their slow reproduction rate and low metabolic activity, these bacteria can only utilize volatile fatty acids for metabolism, producing methane. The so-called syllogism divides the acidic digestion stage into three phases, namely the hydrolysis phase, the acid production phase, and the acidic decline phase. Including the methanogenesis stage, it is called a tetrad. Main factors affecting sludge digestion 1. pH: Anaerobic digestion produces organic acids, with an optimal pH of 7.0~7.3. pH range required by acid-producing bacteria and methanogenic bacteria: pH range, survival range, normal metabolic range, efficient metabolic range. Acid-producing bacteria: 5.0–9.0, 6.0–8.0, 6.0–8.0. Methanogenic bacteria: 6.0–8.0, 6.4–7.8, 6.8–7.1. 2. Temperature: Mesophilic temperature: 33–35ºC; Thermophilic temperature: 50–55ºC. Depending on the digestion temperature, digestion is generally classified into three types: high-temperature digestion, mesophilic digestion, and low-temperature digestion. The temperature for mesophilic digestion can be controlled between 29 and 38°C, with 35 being a commonly used value℃ ； High-temperature digestion takes place at temperatures between 50 and 56°C, with 55 being a commonly used value℃ ； At room temperature digestion generally does not involve heating; the digestion temperature is not controlled and usually lies between 15–25°C, but the residence time is longer. When high requirements are placed on the sanitary parameters of sludge, high-temperature digestion still holds an advantage. Moderate-temperature digestion is commonly used in practice, with the tank temperature controlled at 35°C. Location selection for wastewater treatment plants 【20】 What are the main principles for choosing the site of a wastewater treatment plant? 1) To meet the requirements for environmental health protection, the site of the factory should maintain a certain distance from residential areas or public building complexes. The size of the protective distance should be determined through consultation with the relevant environmental protection planning authorities, based on local conditions; it generally should be no less than 300 m. 2) The plant site must be located downstream of the centralized water source, at a distance of not less than 500 m, and should be situated downstream of the regional or factory area as well as the residential areas, taking into account the prevailing wind direction in summer as well. 3) The selection of the factory site should follow the principle of conserving land use, making maximum use of abandoned land in the area, and using as little farmland as possible, or avoiding the use of high-quality farmland. Make full use of the terrain by selecting favorable locations for the plant, placing it in areas with an appropriate slope so that wastewater and sludge treatment processes can rely on gravity flow, thereby minimizing head losses, achieving soil balance within the plant area, and reducing energy consumption. 4) Where conditions permit, the plant site should be located in areas with good geological conditions and low groundwater levels, to facilitate construction and reduce project costs. 5) Apart from using treatment processes such as stabilization ponds, the plant site should not be located in low-lying areas that are prone to flooding during the rainy season. For treatment plants located near water bodies, it is necessary to choose sites that are not at risk of flooding during the rainy season. Sealing measures should be considered when wastewater treatment plants pose a risk of contaminating groundwater. In areas with high groundwater levels, measures to lower the groundwater level should be considered to improve the buoyancy resistance of structures. Wastewater flow meter [21] What are the common measuring devices used to measure wastewater flow during wastewater treatment? 1. Rotameter 2. Electromagnetic flowmeter 3. Differential pressure flowmeter 4. Vortex flowmeter 5. Ultrasonic flowmeter 6. Open-channel flowmeter. Among these, electromagnetic flowmeters, ultrasonic flowmeters, and open-channel flowmeters are the most commonly used. V] Laws, regulations, and policies related to air pollution control 【1】 When was the current Air Pollution Prevention and Control Law of the People’s Republic of China put into effect? Article 66: This Law has been in force since September 1, 2000. 【2】What is the purpose of formulating and promulgating the Law of the People’s Republic of China on the Prevention and Control of Air Pollution? Article 1 This Law is formulated to prevent and control air pollution, protect and improve the living environment and ecological environment, safeguard human health, and promote the sustainable development of the economy and society. 【3】**Which types of coal are subject to mining restrictions? Article 24. **Promote coal washing and processing to reduce sulfur and ash content in coal, and restrict the mining of coal with high sulfur and ash contents. The newly mined coal comes from coal mines with high sulfur and ash content; therefore, it is necessary to install appropriate coal washing facilities to reduce the sulfur and ash levels in the coal to meet the specified standards. 【4】**What is the basis for formulating emission standards for air pollutants? Article 7 The administrative department in charge of environmental protection under the State Council formulates **emission standards for air pollutants based on **air environmental quality standards as well as **economic and technical conditions. 【5】Which clean production processes should enterprises prioritize in order to reduce the generation of air pollutants? Article 19. Enterprises should give priority to adopting clean production processes that are efficient in energy use and produce low levels of pollutants, in order to reduce the generation of air pollutants. 【6】According to the Law of the People’s Republic of China on the Prevention and Control of Air Pollution, who has the authority to approve the designation of areas subject to total control of air pollutants? Which areas can be designated as such? What is the basis for enterprises and institutions subject to total control limits in terms of pollutant emissions? Article 15. The State Council and the people’s governments of provinces, autonomous regions, and municipalities directly under the Central Government may designate areas that have not yet met the specified air quality standards, as well as the acid rain control areas and sulfur dioxide pollution control areas approved by the State Council, as areas subject to total emission controls for major air pollutants. Within the areas subject to total control of air pollutants, the local people concerned **determine the total emissions of major air pollutants by enterprises and institutions in accordance with the conditions and procedures set forth by the State Council, and on the principles of openness, fairness, and impartiality, issue permits for the emission of such pollutants. Enterprises and institutions subject to total emission controls for air pollutants must discharge such pollutants in accordance with the approved total emissions levels for major air pollutants and the emission conditions specified in their permits. 【7】What are the regulations regarding the prevention and control of pollutants in the form of flammable gases generated in industrial production? Article 37. Flammable gases generated in industrial production should be recycled; if they cannot be recycled and are released into the atmosphere, pollution control measures must be taken. If the combustible gas recovery device is not functioning properly, it should be repaired or replaced promptly. When it is necessary to release flammable gases during a period when the recycling facility is not operating properly, such gases must be completely burned or other measures must be taken to reduce air pollution. 【8】How should enterprises and institutions, as well as the persons responsible, who violate the Law of the People’s Republic of China on the Prevention and Control of Air Pollution and cause air pollution incidents be dealt with? Article 61. For enterprises and institutions that violate the provisions of this law and cause air pollution incidents, the local environmental protection administrative department at or above the county level where they are located shall impose a fine of up to 50 percent of the direct economic losses caused by such incidents, with a maximum limit of 500,000 yuan ； In cases of more serious circumstances, the directly responsible supervisors and other persons directly liable shall be subject to administrative or disciplinary sanctions imposed in accordance with the law by their respective units or higher-level supervisory authorities ； Those who cause serious air pollution accidents, resulting in significant losses to public and private property or serious consequences such as injuries or deaths, and whose actions constitute a crime, shall be held criminally liable in accordance with the law. 【9】What are the main principles for selecting technologies when using flue gas desulfurization facilities, as stipulated in the \"Technical Policy on Sulfur Dioxide Emissions from Coal Combustion\"? Article 5.3. 5.3 When using flue gas desulfurization facilities, the following key principles should be considered in the selection of technology: 5.3.1 The service life of the desulfurization equipment should be over 15 years ； 5.3.2 Automatic control devices for desulfurization equipment, featuring key process parameters (pH value, liquid-to-gas ratio, and SO2 outlet concentration) ； 5.3.3 The desulfurization products shall be stabilized or properly treated to eliminate the risk of secondary release of sulfur dioxide; 5.3.4 The desulfurization products and wastewater shall not cause secondary pollution and can be disposed of safely ； 5.3.5 Moderate investment and operating costs ； 5.3.6 The desulfurization equipment shall be capable of operating continuously, and it shall be able to function properly in winter in northern regions. 【10】What is the technological approach for flue gas desulfurization in power plant boilers as specified in the \"Technical Policy on Sulfur Dioxide Emissions from Coal Combustion\"? Section 5.1.3. 1) When installing flue gas desulfurization facilities in power plant boilers that use coal with a sulfur content of 2% or in large-capacity units (200MW), the wet limestone-gypsum process should be given priority; the desulfurization efficiency should be maintained at over 90%, and the operational rate should be at least 95% of the time when the power plant is operating normally. 2) Sulfur content in fuel