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Application of a constructed wetland for non-point source pollution control
1Institute of Environmental Engineering, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung, Chinese Taiwan.
Summary
Constructed wetlands effectively remove non-point source (NPS) pollution and wastewater contaminants in Taiwan. This study demonstrates significant reductions in nitrogen, chemical oxygen demand (COD), heavy metals, and total suspended solids (TSS), improving water quality.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Engineering
- Water Resource Management
- Ecological Engineering
Background:
- Non-point source (NPS) pollution significantly impairs surface water quality in Taiwan.
- Constructed wetlands offer a sustainable solution for water pollution control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of a field-scale constructed wetland in removing NPS pollutants and improving water quality.
- To assess the removal efficiency of nitrogen, COD, heavy metals, and TSS.
Main Methods:
- A 40m x 30m x 1m constructed wetland system was implemented at National Sun Yat-Sen University.
- The system treated approximately 85 m3/day of untreated wastewater and stormwater runoff.
- Floating (Pistia stratiotes L.) and emergent (Phragmites communis L.) plant species were utilized.
Main Results:
- The constructed wetland achieved high removal rates for key pollutants.
- Over 88% nitrogen, 81% COD, 85% heavy metals, and 60% TSS were removed.
- Significant improvements in water quality were observed after treatment.
Conclusions:
- Constructed wetlands are a viable and efficient technology for NPS pollution control.
- The findings support the application of constructed wetlands for enhancing surface water quality.