father of biological nutrient removal' Dr James L Barnard

摘要

Dr James L Barnard, winner of this year's prestigious Lee Kuan Yew prize, is often hailed as the 'father of biological nutrient removal' - a title that is most appropriate given the genesis of this type of treatment in his early work in South Africa. Long-time IWA member, and Global Practice & Technology Leader — Advanced Biological Treatment with consultancy Black & Veatch, Dr Barnard says modestly of the award:'I was very surprised when I was told. When I heard that Mr KhooTeng Chye (PUB's CEO) wanted to speak to me, I thought maybe they wanted me to give a keynote speech — I was quite astounded.' He adds:'One feels there are so many deserving people in the field — professionals who have done outstanding work moving N (nitrogen) and P (phosphorus) removal forward. I would like to acknowledge that it was not a solo effort that brought me here, but the support from my colleagues.' Dr Barnard's work began with studies in the US, followed by a return to South Africa. Here the Johannesburg conurbation, situated on high ground, was pumping potable water up for the region s eight million citizens and returning treated wastewater flows to lower ground where reservoirs serving other communities were consequently suffering badly from eutrophication.