Constructed Wetlands for the Treatment of Domestic Grey Water: An Instrument of the Green Economy to Realize the Millennium Development Goals

Abstract

In rapidly developing countries like India, wastewater generation has increased manifold due to an increasing population, industrialization and urbanization. This in turn has led to the deterioration of several urban water bodies and aquifers. Transition to a green economy in the water sector requires a paradigm shift from the current practices by adopting innovative technologies that provide environmental as well economic benefits. In this context, constructed wetland systems (CWs) for domestic water treatment and reuse promise to be a cost-effective alternative to conventional systems and can contribute to improved water security. This chapter discusses the potential of CWs to contribute to a green economy, the various costs and benefits associated with it, along with a case study. The case study conducted shows removal efficiency between 65 and 99% for various pollutants, which complies with established reuse standards set by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). In the process, it helps to save around 47% of the overall water requirement of the household. This chapter concludes that CWs proves to be an effective instrument of a green economy.