What defines a conventional system in onsite wastewater treatment?

A conventional system in onsite wastewater treatment is defined as one that uses natural soil for the infiltration and treatment of wastewater. This method relies on the physical, chemical, and biological processes that occur in the soil to treat effluent as it percolates through the ground. The soil acts as a natural filter, removing impurities and pathogens from the wastewater before it reaches the groundwater.

This definition emphasizes the importance of soil as a critical component of the treatment process. The conventional system is designed to work in harmony with the natural environment, leveraging the soil's inherent properties to ensure effective wastewater management. In contrast, methods involving chemical treatments or synthetic materials do not utilize the soil's natural biological processes and are classified differently.