Comparative analysis of algal strains for nutrient removal in household wastewater: A Sustainable Approach

Nutrient pollution, primarily caused by nitrates and phosphates in wastewater, poses severe environmental threats such as eutrophication and ecosystem disruption. This study investigates the potential of two microalgal strains, Chlorella vulgaris and Spirulina platensis, to remove these pollutants from household wastewater. A home-scale experiment was conducted, where wastewater samples were inoculated with the algae and monitored for two weeks. Nutrient levels were measured using standard water testing kits. Results showed that Chlorella vulgaris was more effective in nitrate removal, achieving a reduction of 62%, while Spirulina platensis excelled in phosphate removal with a 67% reduction. These findings highlight the practical potential of algae as eco-friendly, low-cost bioremediation agents, paving the way for sustainable wastewater treatment solutions.