What happens after you flush? In this episode of H2O and Beyond, we go deep inside the Stickney Water Reclamation Plant—the largest wastewater treatment facility on Earth—serving millions across Chicago every day. From massive aeration tanks to advanced biosolid recovery, we break down how this engineering marvel treats over 1.4 billion gallons of wastewater daily. With Stickney's large size, some interesting things have happened - like finding a family of possums and 100$ in the wastewater! There are also some interesting things that go on in their laboratory, such as using the temperature of sludge to heat and cool buildings! Timestamps Below 👇0:00 Intro1:09 What is the Chicago Metropolitan Water Reclamation District?2:51 How is wastewater treated at Stickney?5:09 Interesting objects that have been found in the wastewater6:06 (continued) How is wastewater treated at Stickney?20:38 What is sludge, and how is it dealt with?23:20 Toxins inside the sludge30:25 Interesting jobs people have at the Stickney 30:50 Microbiologist called in to save dead bacteria?!32:09 (continued) Interesting jobs at the Stickney 33:45 Interesting buildings/parts of Stickney35:53 Effects of climate change on Stickney43:17 Cool research at the Stickney laboratories45:03 Using sludge to cool and heat buildings??46:53 Closing Remarks🎧 Listen to more episodes & follow us here:👉 https://linktr.ee/h2oandbeyondFeedback Formhttps://forms.gle/RNjdFLY2wSrk7PW2AFollow the Stickney Socials!https://mwrd.org/https://www.instagram.com/mwrd_of_greater_chicago/?hl=enIf you liked this episode, please Like and Subscribe!

Every 90 seconds, a child dies from a water-related disease — yet many of us barely think twice about the water we drink, cook with, and flush away. In this opening episode of H2O and Beyond, we explore the global water crisis happening in plain sight.

From contaminated tap water in Flint Michigan to the growing threat of PFAS and microplastics, this episode breaks down why clean water is far from guaranteed — even in wealthy nations. Learn what "clean" water really means, why many treatment systems are falling short, and how climate change, aging infrastructure, and underinvestment are pushing systems to the brink.

Plus, we spotlight global innovation bringing hope — from Paris’ stormwater basins to green infrastructure in U.S. cities.

Whether you’re new to water issues or just thirsty for solutions, this episode will change how you see the water running through your life.

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