Emerging and ecofriendly biological methods for agricultural wastewater treatment

Abstract

The quest for sustainable agricultural practices has led to a surge in research focused on innovative wastewater treatment methods. This review explores the emerging biological treatment approaches designed to address the challenges of eco-friendly agricultural wastewater treatment and subsequent reuse. The investigation centers around three novel techniques: constructed wetlands, algae-based systems, and microbial fuel cells. Constructed wetlands (CWs) mimic natural processes to treat agricultural wastewater, providing habitat for various plant species that collaboratively remove contaminants. Algae-based systems(ABs) harness the photosynthetic prowess of algae to absorb nutrients and pollutants, producing biomass that can be repurposed. Meanwhile, microbial fuel cells (MFCs) employ microorganisms to break down organic matter in wastewater while generating electricity as a valuable byproduct. This review aims to provide insights into the potential of these biological treatment methods to revolutionize wastewater management in agriculture. By mitigating environmental impact, conserving water resources, and yielding reusable outputs, these techniques will offer a sustainable pathway towards addressing the pressing challenges of agricultural wastewater treatment and enhancing the overall ecological balance.