African Journal of
Agricultural Research

  • Abbreviation: Afr. J. Agric. Res.
  • Language: English
  • ISSN: 1991-637X
  • DOI: 10.5897/AJAR
  • Start Year: 2006
  • Published Articles: 6915

Article in Press

Performance Efficiency of Constructed Wetland (CW) Planted with Common Reed (Phragmites australis) in the Treatment of Greywater in Akure, Nigeria

Femi Alao, Olawale Olugbenga Olanrewaju, Ajayi Johnson Oloruntade, Adewoye Alade Olanipekun , Daniel Uwumarogie Idusuyi, John Igeimokhia Braimmah, Opeyemi Bayode

  •  Received: 03 October 2024
  •  Accepted: 17 December 2024
Freshwater scarcity is an intensifying challenge in arid and semi-arid regions globally, highlighting the importance of treating household greywater to augment limited water resources. This research investigates the effectiveness of a Constructed Wetland (CW) system, utilizing Common Reed, for greywater treatment in Akure, Nigeria. Greywater samples were sourced from Jadesola Hostel at the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA). Following initial pre-treatment in a 500-liter sedimentation tank containing layers of gravel and fine sand, the greywater was directed into a Vertical Flow Sub-surface Constructed Wetland (CW) system planted with Common Reed for additional purification. Both untreated and treated greywater samples were analyzed for Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), pH, Electrical Conductivity (EC), Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), and heavy metals. The results demonstrated that the Constructed Wetland (CW) substantially lowered all tested chemical parameters, with reductions of 91.4% in BOD, 91.5% in COD, and 38.7% in TDS. The treated greywater complied with local standards for wastewater reuse, making it appropriate for irrigation and other outdoor applications. These outcomes are particularly beneficial for farmers who rely on irrigation during the dry season.

Keywords: Common reed, Constructed wetland, Electrical conductivity, Greywater, Irrigation