Pilot 4: Italy – IRIDRA – Hybrid Treatment Wetland

The IRIDRA hybrid treatment wetland pilot in Italy focused on treating combined sewage overflow (CSO). The pilot demonstrated the feasibility of the technology for removing total suspended solids (TSS), chemical oxygen demand (COD), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5), and ammonium (N-NH4). The system investigated the optimisation of the air supply and although the results were promising, there is still potential for further improvement.

Co-benefits monitored included educational and cost indicators, as well as biodiversity. The pilot highlighted the importance of local stakeholder commitment for successful sampling efforts and the installation and maintenance of online sensors.

Challenges faced by the IRIDRA pilot included ensuring continuous support from local stakeholders and managing the technical aspects of sensor deployment. Despite these challenges, the pilot provided valuable insights into the optimisation of hybrid treatment wetlands and their application in urban water management.

The findings from the IRIDRA pilot contribute to the broader understanding of hybrid treatment wetlands and their potential for improving water quality in urban areas. The insights gained can inform future implementations of similar systems, emphasizing the importance of stakeholder engagement and continuous monitoring for optimal performance. Read more.