Plasti-C-Wetland is a new project of Planterastics researchers. The project is focused on fate and behaviour of microplastics in a laboratory constructed wetland.
Constructed wetlands (CWs) are often used to treat domestic wastewater, especially when there is no sewer system at the site. They contain various aquatic plants and associated microorganisms that efficiently remove organic matter, metals, and pathogens. However, there is limited information on microplastics and their impacts in constructed wetlands. Therefore, the aim of the Plasti-C-Wetland project is to investigate the effects of microplastics on the treatment efficiency of various set-ups of laboratory CWs (surface and sub-surface flow) and the ability to retain microplastics in a CW. In addition, the effects of microplastics on plants and microorganisms in CWs will be investigated. The results of this project will help to understand the behavior, fate, and effects of microplastics in CWs.
