Glossary
Urban sewer overflows pollution

The definitions below are taken from the Dictionnaire encyclopédique de l'hydrologie urbaine et de l'assainissement available on the website : http://wikhydro.developpement-durable.gouv.fr/index.php/Cat%C3%A9gorie:Dictionnaire_DEHUA

Autocurage; Self cleansing

Ability of a sewer pipe to carry the flows it receives without clogging.

Biocenosis; Biota

All living organisms present in an ecosystem.

Biodegradability ; Biodegradabilité

Ability of a substance to decompose naturally under the action of micro-organisms.

Biodegradation ; Biodegradation

The decomposition of organic matter by micro-organisms such as bacteria, fungi and algae, which draw energy and the substances they need for their growth and metabolism.