Potential and Limitations of Nature-based Solutions in Wastewater Treatment

The escalating challenges of global water pollution necessitate sustainable and effective wastewater treatments. This chapter explores the potential and limitations of nature-based solutions and emphasizes their significance in addressing contemporary wastewater treatment needs. This chapter examines various nature-based approaches, including constructed wetlands, green infrastructure, and phytoremediation, and elucidates pollutant removal mechanisms through physical, biological, and chemical processes. Successful case studies illustrate the viability of these solutions in diverse settings, highlighting their advantages such as environmental sustainability, cost-effectiveness, and social benefits. However, inherent limitations, including climate constraints, spatial requirements, and long-term maintenance considerations, are scrutinized. Regulatory and policy considerations are discussed, advocating the integration of nature-based solutions into water quality regulations and urban planning policies. The chapter concludes by outlining future research directions and emphasizing the critical role of NBS in advancing wastewater treatment.