The growing pig farming industry in Mexico is facing a significant challenge: the management of large volumes of wastewater that can harm local water bodies and public health. Recent research published in ‘Results in Engineering’ sheds light on an innovative solution to this pressing issue through the use of hybrid constructed wetlands.
Researchers led by Gaspar Monteagudo-Hernández from the Wetlands and Environmental Sustainability Laboratory at Tecnológico Nacional de México have explored the effectiveness of hybrid constructed wetlands in treating swine wastewater. These systems combine two types of wetlands—Vertical Flow Constructed Wetlands (VF-CWs) and Horizontal Flow Constructed Wetlands (HF-CWs)—to leverage natural processes for pollutant removal.
The study evaluated two configurations: one where VF-CWs were placed before HF-CWs (System I) and another where the order was reversed (System II). Both systems utilized tropical ornamental plants, specifically Canna hybrids in the VF-CWs and Heliconia latispatha in the HF-CWs. The results were promising, showing that System I outperformed System II in removing key contaminants. For instance, the removal efficiencies for organic matter and nutrients were significantly higher in System I, with a Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD5) reduction of nearly 73% and total nitrogen removal at 79%.
This research not only highlights an effective method for wastewater treatment but also opens up commercial opportunities within the agriculture sector. The use of hybrid constructed wetlands presents a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative for pig farmers, who often struggle with the financial burden of wastewater management. By adopting these systems, farmers can mitigate the environmental impact of their operations while potentially reducing treatment costs.
Furthermore, the vigorous growth of the ornamental plants used in these systems could lead to additional revenue streams. Farmers could explore the cultivation and sale of Canna hybrids and Heliconia latispatha, tapping into the ornamental plant market. This dual benefit of wastewater treatment and plant cultivation could enhance the economic viability of pig farming in Mexico.
As the agricultural sector continues to seek sustainable practices, the findings from this research provide a pathway for integrating environmental stewardship with economic growth. The successful implementation of hybrid constructed wetlands could not only improve water quality in affected areas but also position farmers as responsible stewards of the environment, thereby enhancing their market appeal.