A Field and Laboratory Evaluation of the Fossil Filter in Reducing Heavy Metal Non-Point Source Pollution from Street Runoff

Abstract

The goal of this project was to evaluate the laboratory and field performance of the Fossil Filter in reducing non-point source (NPS) pollution derived from street runoff in the residential/commercial setting of Waikiki. Additionally, protocols were established for collecting and analyzing street runoff samples and filter media, in the laboratory and field settings. In order to carry out these objectives, a storm drain filter (Fossil Filter) was installed on the corner of Ala Wai Boulevard and Lewers Street. Specifically, the project assessed the effectiveness of the Fossil Filter in removing heavy metal pollution. The Fossil Filter has prevented at least 1479 mg of zinc (Zn), 345 mg of copper (Cu), 230 mg of lead (Pb), 172 mg of nickel (Ni), and 146 mg of chromium (Cr) from entering the water ecosystem during its first three and a half-month tenure. It has also stopped a total of 1.5 kg of heavy metal laden particulates. Laboratory experiments, which attempted to mimic the field component, showed 50 to 58 percent retention of particulates by the filter medium.