Constructed wetlands in China

Large-scale centralized wastewater treatment systems often prevail in industrial countries and have been regarded as a successful approach during the last century. However, to solve the multifold water-related problems in China with its rapid growth of urbanization and industrialization, complete replication of this centralized, cost- and energy-intensive technology has proved to be extremely limited in scope and success. As one of the most important applications of ecological engineering, constructed wetland (CW) systems for wastewater treatment can offer an optimal alternative and result in beneficial conservation of natural resources with low capital costs and energy consumption, as well as minimal operation and maintenance expenditures. CW technology is particularly suitable for rapidly growing small- and medium-size cities in China. This paper aims at examining the mechanisms of pollutant removal efficiency in these systems and investigating the merits, status and feasibility of using constructed wetland systems to treatment wastewater in China. Additionally, it investigates existing impediments to application and implementation of CWs in China, as well as challenges to future development.