James Barnard, Innovator of Biological Nutrient Removal in Wastewater Treatment, Passes Away at 90

James L. Barnard, a South African environmental engineer known for developing biological methods for wastewater treatment, died on January 27 at age 90 due to complications from Parkinson's disease. His work in the 1970s introduced processes using microorganisms to remove nitrogen and phosphorus from wastewater, preventing harmful algal blooms. Barnard designed over 100 nutrient-removal facilities worldwide and received the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize in 2011 for his contributions. He is survived by his wife Maryna and family.

Published Mar 19, 2026

James L. Barnard, a South African environmental engineer and pioneer of biological nutrient removal (BNR) in wastewater treatment, died on January 27 at age 90 from Parkinson's complications. He developed methods in the 1970s for using microorganisms to treat wastewater by removing nitrogen and phosphorus, significantly improving water quality.

AI-curated by Theia

Barnard designed over 100 nutrient-removal facilities globally, including the first in the U.S. in 1978. He received the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize in 2011, recognizing his impact on BNR technology. He is survived by his wife Maryna and family.