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 9: Microalgal wastewater treatment: a circular economy approach Open Access
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Published:February 2025
Nilay Kumar Sarker, Prasad Kaparaju, 2025. "Microalgal wastewater treatment: a circular economy approach", Nature-Based Technologies for Wastewater Treatment and Bioenergy Production, Imran Ahmad, Norhayati Abdullah
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Abstract
In this chapter, we explore the application of microalgae in wastewater treatment and the advantages of this integrated approach in fulfilling various sustainable development goals via circularity. We highlight how this integration contributes to environmental protection, reduction in chemical usage, and decrease in carbon emissions while fostering a green system that supports the energy, aquaculture, and agriculture sectors. This is achieved by converting the algal biomass generated from wastewater treatment into algae-based biofuel, fish feed, and fertilizer. Additionally, we examine the obstacles and necessary policy support needed to commercialize and expand this field. The role of microalgae in nutrient assimilation, pollutant removal, and biomass production is discussed alongside the technological advancements in cultivation methods, including photobioreactors and hybrid treatment systems. The chapter also delves into the economic and environmental impacts of adopting a circular economy model, highlighting the potential for resource recovery and sustainable development.