Part A presents a summary of the issues and the different points of view on the contribution of detergents to the phosphorus levels in sewage. It includes an outline of studies to develop a method for measuring polyphosphates directly in sewage.

Part B reports on a trial conducted by Melbourne Water in the town of Whittlesea, where householders were provided with non-phosphorus (NP) detergent and asked to use it for a certain period. Detailed studies of the changes in phosphorus loads into and out of the sewage treatment plant are reported.

Part C presents an annotated bibliography on the topic of phosphorus and detergents.