Aerobic wastewater treatment is a process where bacteria utilize oxygen to degrade organic matter (generally quantified as biochemical oxygen demand or BOD) and other pollutants involved in various production systems. The two most common types of aerated wastewater systems are activated sludge systems and aerated stabilization basins (ASBs). ASBs are commonly found as treatment systems in the pulp and paper industry and are used in some municipalities, as well as other industries.