What is the term for the waterborne wastes derived from ordinary living processes?

The term "domestic sewage" refers specifically to the waterborne waste products that are generated from everyday domestic activities, such as bathing, cooking, washing, and toileting. This type of sewage consists of a mixture of human waste, food scraps, soaps, detergents, and other substances that originate from residential sources.

Characterizing it as domestic sewage highlights the fact that it is primarily linked to human habitation and activities, thereby distinguishing it from industrial wastewater or stormwater runoff. Understanding this terminology is crucial in plumbing and environmental contexts, as it aids in recognizing the need for appropriate treatment methods to ensure safe disposal and mitigate environmental impact.

While domestic effluent might seem similar, it typically refers to treated or untreated discharge from domestic sources and may not encapsulate the entirety of waste, including solid materials. Household runoff, on the other hand, usually pertains to excess water that drains off from surfaces during rain or melting snow, rather than waste generated from human activities. Wastewater treatment describes the processes used to treat sewage but does not define the sewage itself.