Nature-Based Technologies for Wastewater Treatment and Bioenergy ProductionOpen Access
An accessible ePub edition is available here
With 80% of wastewater globally discharged untreated and non-renewable energy resources rapidly depleting, the call for sustainable solutions has never been louder.
Nature-Based Technologies for Wastewater Treatment and Bioenergy Production explores the groundbreaking integration of natural systems and advanced technologies to address critical global challenges in wastewater management and renewable energy. This book delves into nature-based technological approaches such as constructed wetlands, bio-aided filtration systems, and photobioreactors for microalgae cultivation, showcasing their potential to transform wastewater into a valuable resource while significantly reducing the environmental footprint.
Rooted in innovative research, the book emphasizes advanced techniques for nutrient recovery, pollutant removal, and carbon capture. It examines the role of emerging technologies, such as high-rate algal ponds and hybrid treatment systems, in achieving cost-effective and energy-efficient wastewater treatment. Highlighting the science behind microalgae-based biodiesel production, the book also explores the potential of algae-derived bioproducts such as biofertilizers, bioplastics, and animal feed supplements, underscoring the role of these innovations in building a sustainable bioeconomy.
Rich in real-world applications, this reference work provides practical insights for academia, researchers, students, industry professionals, scholars, practitioners, and policymakers. It addresses critical issues such as wastewater management, rising energy demands, and carbon footprint while demonstrating scalable solutions for global implementation.
Nature-Based Technologies for Wastewater Treatment and Bioenergy Production envisions a future where nature-inspired technologies lead to a thriving circular bioeconomy. By combining natural processes with advanced technologies, this book lays the roadmap for transforming environmental challenges into sustainable opportunities and fostering cleaner and more resilient planetary health.
ISBN: 9781789064094 (paperback)
ISBN: 9781789064100 (eBook)
ISBN: 9781789064117 (ePub)
Chapter 1: Introduction to nature-based solutions for wastewater treatment Open Access
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Published:February 2025
I. Ahmad, 2025. "Introduction to nature-based solutions for wastewater treatment", Nature-Based Technologies for Wastewater Treatment and Bioenergy Production, Imran Ahmad, Norhayati Abdullah
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Abstract
Nature-based solutions (NBS) for wastewater treatment present an environmentally sustainable and cost-effective alternative to conventional treatment systems. These approaches harness natural processes involving plants, microorganisms, and soil systems to treat and purify wastewater, reducing the reliance on energy-intensive and chemical-based methods. Wetlands, biofilters, and vegetated swales are examples of NBS that utilize natural filtration, adsorption, and microbial degradation to remove contaminants from wastewater, such as nutrients, heavy metals, and pathogens. In addition to wastewater purification, these solutions offer co-benefits, including biodiversity enhancement, carbon sequestration, and improved water security. NBS are particularly advantageous in decentralized and rural contexts where traditional infrastructure may be limited, promoting resilience against climate change and providing ecosystem services. However, the effectiveness of NBS can vary based on site-specific factors, such as climate, pollutant load, and land availability, necessitating careful design and monitoring. This chapter will briefly introduce the NBS and its advantages and challenges, which provide a platform for the upcoming chapters incorporating various technologies. Future research is needed to optimize these systems, quantify long-term benefits, and scale their application in urban settings. Overall, NBS represent a promising and versatile approach to achieving sustainable water management and addressing global wastewater challenges.