Sustainable Decentralized Greywater Management Using Hybrid Filtration and Constructed Wetland Systems

Water scarcity and increasing demand for sustainable water management solutions have led to the exploration of decentralized wastewater treatment systems. This study presents the design and performance evaluation of a decentralized greywater treatment system integrating multi-stage filtration with constructed wetland polishing for efficient water reuse. The system consists of primary filtration units for the removal of coarse solids, followed by secondary treatment through sand and activated carbon filters to reduce turbidity, organic load, and contaminants. The final polishing stage employs a constructed wetland system utilizing natural processes involving vegetation, soil, and microbial activity to further enhance water quality. Experimental analysis was conducted to evaluate key performance parameters such as biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), total suspended solids (TSS), and pathogen removal efficiency. Results indicate significant improvement in water quality, achieving removal efficiencies exceeding standard reuse criteria for non-potable applications such as irrigation, flushing, and landscaping. The decentralized nature of the system ensures low operational cost, minimal energy consumption, and adaptability to rural and peri-urban settings. The study demonstrates that integrating conventional filtration with nature-based treatment systems offers a sustainable, eco-friendly, and cost-effective solution for greywater reuse and water conservation. This approach contributes to reducing freshwater demand and supports circular water management practices.