Biotreatment technologies for stormwater harvesting: critical perspectives

Abstract

Biotreatment technologies offer many advantages for passive stormwater treatment before harvesting, but performance can be variable and sensitive to system design, construction, operation and maintenance. While there is substantial research underpinning pollutant removal, hydraulic function, internal processes and optimal design, specific focus upon stormwater harvesting is relatively limited. Recent advances in system design include testing media amendments for targeted pollutant removal, enhanced pathogen removal using antimicrobial plants, and broadening technology application. However, the production of reliable fit-for-purpose water requires the development of robust validation methodologies to meet public safety expectations. While foundation studies exist, more needs to be done to extend the validation framework, monitor and control system performance and operation in real-time, and apply standards and regulatory checks.