Phycoremediation - A Clean Technology for Water Pollution Abatement

Abstract

Phycoremediation has been utilised to remediate wastewater and successfully lower nutrient levels. There isn’t many research, though, on how well phycoremediation works to lower nitrogen levels in eutrophic lakes. This review concentrates on the process and variables involved in using algae. Before considering the possibility of algal-based approaches in remediating lake eutrophication, to remove nutrients and contaminants from wastewater. Algal biofilm, algal grass scrubbers, high-rate algal ponds (HRAP), and immobilised algae are methods used in phycoremediation of wastewater. A wastewater treatment method based on microalgae lowers BOD, prevents coli forms, eliminates pollutants and nutrients, and removes heavy metals. The sixth sustainable development target of the UNDP cannot be attained without phytoremediation. Microalgae can effectively treat wastewater at a very low cost, and the biomass they produce can be used to produce biofuels. The cost-effective growing of microalgae and contaminants with wastewater can be replaced by the successful coupling of microalgae with wastewater, which can also scale up production of high-value products. This review mainly focused on the potential of algae and their specific mechanisms involved in wastewater treatment and energy recovery systems leading to important industrial precursors. The review is highly beneficial for scientists, wastewater treatment plant operators, freshwater managers, and industrial communities to support the sustainable development of natural resources. Keywords: Algae, Biodegradation, Pollutant removal, Phycoremediation, Wastewater treatment.