A Mini-Review on the Use of Constructed Wetland Systems for Water Treatment in Developing Countries

Abstract

The predominant scarcity of water globally has necessitated the invention of non-conventional resources to bridge the clean freshwater demand gap. Even in areas where there is access to water, inadequate quality and sanitation are pervasive problems, especially in developing countries. Resolving these intricate water-related problems, which emanate from population increase, the rise of urbanization and industrialization has not been realized using modern cost-, energy- and water-intensive technologies. In light of these challenges, wastewater treatment is a viable solution to supplement limited water resources. Of the available eco-technologies used in wastewater treatment for reuse, constructed wetlands (CWs) have proved to be the most effective. In this review, CWs are confirmed as reliable and low-cost green technologies with high effectiveness in wastewater treatment compared to conventional technologies. Therefore, their application among rural communities of developing countries is practical and highly advisable.

Keywords

• constructed wetlands, contaminants, developing countries, pollutants, wastewater treatment