Results from the survey on Waste Water Treatment in Akureyri
Akureyri's wastewater output is equivalent to that of a town twice its size, primarily due to industrial activities and high private water usage - a common trend in Iceland. The problem is further compounded by the arrival of 200,000 tourists annually.
Waste Water Treatment in Akureyri is a student-initiated project at the University of Akureyri, within the green flag project, and is part of the activities of the environmental council of the University of Akureyri. A total of 568 participated in the survey, with 80.7% considering wastewater treatment as very important. The survey also revealed that 62% of participants did not know that the sewage plant in Akureyri conducts filtering only, 70% were unaware of low sewage treatment standards based on Icelandic law, and 90% believed the law should be changed.
96% of participants expressed a desire to improve the current wastewater treatment in Akureyri, with the majority citing environmental and health concerns. Participants were willing to contribute by not flushing wet wipes, floss, and other rubbish into the toilet, throwing kitchen leftovers into organic waste instead of the toilet, and collecting and returning chemicals instead of pouring them into the sink. The survey also indicated that the majority of respondents were women, and one-fourth were immigrants, implying a greater concern about wastewater treatment among women and immigrants. Participants were willing to pay on average between 1000-3000 ISK/month for an improved wastewater treatment plant. This willingness to pay more is important, since according to Norðurorka such an improvement would require significant investment.
The project is part of the activities of the environmental council of the University of Akureyri and highlights the importance of collaboration and action to protect the environment and public health.
