A major source of pollution entering our drains, rivers, and ultimately the sea is not household waste alone, but Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOG) discharged from hotels, restaurants, corporate cafeterias, malls, clubs, and food courts. Human waste is naturally biodegradable. The real problem begins when it mixes with FOG from commercial kitchens. Grease binds with sewage solids, inhibits microbial decomposition, causes severe sewer blockages, and leads to overflows and untreated discharges into water bodies. Unlike other waste, FOG does not dissolve—it accumulates, hardens, and persists for years. Although grease traps are installed in many commercial establishments, extracted grease and sludge are often disposed of improperly. Poorly maintained sewage treatment plants further increase sludge generation, much of which eventually contaminates soil and waterways. We are treating the symptoms, not the source.A practical solution is to mandate biological grease management through probiotic grease-eating bacteria in grease traps. This reduces FOG, prevents blockages, lowers odours, and decreases the load on municipal treatment systems. Strict monitoring, quarterly compliance certification, and penalties for non-compliance can help protect Goa’s waterways. The solution is proven, cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and already used by leading hotels and corporate facilities.
RICHARD DIAS, Porvorim
