Local and federal officials are applauding the findings of a two-year, federally funded storm water filter project in Norwalk, Conn. The study aimed to block oil, bacteria and trash from entering Long Island Sound.
Longo and Longo and the city of Norwalk showed that the equivalent of 1,200 gal of oil and 19 tons of trash were captured by AbTech Industries' Smart Sponge Plus filtration system, which was installed in 275 key storm drains in the southern part of the city.
"We've been searching for over a decade for a cost-effective method of storm water treatment to protect Norwalk Harbor and Long Island Sound, and we've found it with this technology," said Mayor Richard A. Moccia. "The results speak for themselves."
The filter project involved fitting catch basins in south Norwalk with the Smart Sponge filtration systems to catch trash and pollutants before they could enter the harbor and sound. In addition to blocking trash and absorbing oil, the systems contain an antimicrobial agent that destroys E. coli and other bacteria and fungi.
"The Soundkeeper Organization was not only delighed with the results of the pilot and how the project has impacted the health and utility of Long Island Sound but is extremely pleased to be working with such a forward-thinking mayor such as Mayor Moccia and the city of Norwalk," said Terry Backer, executive director of the Soundkeepers.
Sen. Joseph Lieberman (D-Conn.) was instrumental in getting the progarm funded through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The Norwalk filtrtation project is the largest federally funded program of its kind.
"I'm excited about the leading role that Connecticut has taken to protect our beautiful sound from storm water pollution," Lieberman said. "Mayor Moccia sets the bar as a leader who recognizes the importance of protecting our environment and taking the right steps to do so."
Source: AbTech Industries
