Constructed Wetlands for Wastewater Treatment and Reuse in Northern-Thailand

Abstract

In rural, developing areas surface waters are increasingly polluted by wastewater discharge. For these areas constructed wetlands (CWs) are seen as a suitable method for wastewater treatment. However, current knowledge on implementation of CWs in developing regions is limited. This study therefore aimed to design a suitable CW for rural regions in Northern-Thailand, with an additional focus on wastewater reuse possibilities. A literature review was conducted along with k-C* model based calculations. The study showed that it is necessary to make several adaptions in CW for optimal pollutant removal in Northern-Thailand. The use of a diverse selection of macrophytes is advised. A storage unit should be used for climate adaption in the hydrology component. Additionally it is advised to use a separate soil filtration unit for optimal phosphorus removal. A hybrid CW design with sub-surface flow elements should be used for optimal pollutant removal. This study found that, based on the proposed design, agricultural reuse of the treated water is possible.