The Pollution Index (PI) is a single, normalized score ranging from 0 to 100 that represents the overall contamination load in wastewater. It translates complex, multi-source wastewater data into a clear, actionable signal so utilities can quickly understand wastewater quality and respond to abnormal conditions.
A higher PI indicates poorer wastewater quality.
How the Pollution Index is calculated
The PI combines multiple input streams into one unified reference point. Using several inputs improves accuracy and reliability compared to relying on a single parameter.
The PI calculation is based on:
Real-time sensor data measuring wastewater quality parameters such as electrical conductivity (EC), pH, ORP and Fluorescence.
Laboratory sampling results from automated, historical and manual grab samples
Local context and sector information, including industrial activity in the catchment
Historical data, combining site specific trends with global wastewater datasets collected by Kando across utilities worldwide
The index is locally calibrated, ensuring it reflects the unique characteristics of each network rather than applying generic thresholds.
PI ranges and Pollution Score interpretation
0–29 | Clear wastewater quality
Normal operating conditions30–49 | Medium pollution
Increased likelihood of abnormal pollutant loads50–69 | High pollution
High likelihood of pollutants exceeding normal strength levels70–100 | Extreme pollution
Very high likelihood of severe contamination events
These ranges provide a consistent way to compare wastewater quality across time, locations, and assets within the network.