What does BOD stand for?

BOD stands for Biochemical Oxygen Demand. It is a crucial measurement used in wastewater treatment to assess the amount of oxygen that microorganisms will consume while decomposing organic matter in water. This value provides an indication of the level of organic pollutants present in the water; higher BOD values suggest a higher concentration of biodegradable materials, which can deplete oxygen in the water and negatively affect aquatic life. Monitoring BOD is essential for evaluating the effectiveness of wastewater treatment processes and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. Understanding BOD helps operators maintain the health of treatment systems and protect receiving waters from pollution.