How do most on-site sewage facilities handle wastewater?

On-site sewage facilities (OSSFs) primarily handle wastewater through a process that involves absorption and treatment. The absorption aspect refers to the soil's ability to take in the effluent from the sewage system, allowing for natural filtration as the wastewater passes through the soil layers. This process helps in reducing pollutants before they reach the groundwater.

The treatment component is essential as it ensures that harmful pathogens and contaminants present in the wastewater are broken down biologically or chemically, making the effluent safer for the environment. This dual approach of absorption and treatment is critical for preventing contamination of nearby water sources and protecting public health. It aligns with the fundamental principles of sustainable wastewater management, emphasizing natural processes to treat waste while leveraging the inherent properties of soil.

In contrast, other options suggest methods that do not accurately reflect how OSSFs operate. For example, merely absorbing and holding would lack an effective treatment process, which is crucial for managing health risks and environmental impact. Discharge and treat implies that wastewater is released untreated before undergoing treatment, which could lead to pollution. Filtering and dispersing sounds like a method focused only on physical separation without addressing biological treatment aspects, which is also vital for effective wastewater management.