Floating Treatment Wetlands (FTW) for Sustainable Industrial Wastewater Treatment

Abstract

Water pollution is continuously on the rise due to industrialization, rapid urbanization, agricultural activities, and global economic development. Developing countries directly discharge 80% of their untreated water, including industrial effluents, into water bodies without prior treatment. Finding a cost-effective, efficient, and environmentally friendly solution for industrial wastewater treatment remains a challenge. Floating treatment wetlands (FTW) offer an effective and sustainable technology for water treatment. This chapter presents a comprehensive overview of FTW as a promising solution for industrial wastewater treatment. The chapter begins by emphasizing the importance of sustainable industrial wastewater treatment and introduces FTW as a viable approach. Next, FTW classification, principal components, and basic structural and design considerations are discussed in detail. The chapter further addresses the significance and working mechanism of plant–bacteria partnership in wastewater treatment as crucial aspects of FTW. Additionally, FTW as sustainable industrial wastewater management tools are also discussed through supporting case studies. Lastly, care, maintenance, and associated challenges in FTW implementation for wastewater treatment and enhancement strategies to overcome these challenges were briefed. In conclusion, FTW present a valuable opportunity for transforming industrial wastewater treatment into a more ecologically balanced and sustainable practice.