Mutton Island is considered the environmental issue in Galway and pollution is often thought to be synonymous with large-scale agricultural and industrial developments but 1.5 million people around the country are contributing to an underrated, small-scale source, according to a University of Galway research team. This is the waste water treatment system. This system is so prevalent that it is bound to have an impact, according to Dr Michael Rodgers of the university's civil engineering department.
His records show that there are over 350,000 septic tanks attached to single-dwelling houses, and over 450 systems treating waste water from populations of 500 and under.
As density of settlement in rural areas remains low, such systems are likely to remain in place for some time.
Obviously, if they are not properly designed, constructed and maintained, they have a great potential for damaging the environment, Dr Rodgers says. With this in mind, a national study was initiated by the Department of the Environment and co-ordinated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), assisted by the European Regional Development Fund.
Dr Rodgers' group conducted the work and drew up guidelines to ensure sustainable development. The £200,000 contract was won against Irish and international competition.
Its main objectives were to assess small-scale waste water treatment systems, drawing from international current practice and research.
Some 40 sites were visited, and 12 systems in "good operational condition" were studied.
The research team received help from local authorities, health boards, regional fishery boards, the Office of Public Works and a plethora of engineers, architects and manufacturers.
Main findings included a recommendation that all work relating to installation be supervised and certified by indemnified professionals.
The team also recommended that checks be carried out on all aspects of existing systems, including site suitability. And that where the location is unsuitable, perhaps due to soil conditions, remedial measures like installation of intermittent filters should be taken.
The emphasis is on "guidelines", however. New regulations, if any, will be another day's - or year's - work. Two guidance manuals are likely to be published next year by the EPA and a conference is expected to be held to debate the findings.
The project is one of several which Dr Rodgers has links to. His department is also looking at alternatives to septic tanks, filter systems, and a new mechanical device which he developed.