Aquatic plants' role in bioremediation
Pollutants like heavy metals and organic compounds can be introduced into critical water resources via industries, agriculture, and other human-related activities. Such contaminants lower water quality and deplete oxygen levels, which directly harm local ecosystems and human health. However, a diverse range of aquatic plant species possess phytoremediation properties in which they are able to absorb heavy metals, nitrogen, phosphorus, and other organic compounds from water bodies. By optimizing these phytoremediation qualities, aquatic plants can play a significant role in restoring water quality, wastewater treatment, and ecosystem rehabilitation.
Image source: Delgado-González, C., Madariaga-Navarrete, A., Fernández-Cortés, J.M., Pelcastre, M., Oza, G., Iqbal, H., Sharma, A. (2021). Advances and Applications of Water Phytoremediation: A Potential Biotechnological Approach for the Treatment of Heavy Metals from Contaminated Water. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021,18, 5215. 10.3390/ijerph18105215.
Pass NetZero's role in aquatic plant bioremediation
Working with academic and research institutions like the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST), we are funding research that explores which aquatic plant and macroalgae candidates would be best suited for bioremediation purposes. Through the development of an Atlas, which documents and categorizes species of interest, as well as testing of selected species, researchers are able to determine rates of pollutant uptake and effects on water quality. By collecting this type of data, aquatic plant and macroalgae species can be more confidently selected for larger bioremediation projects.
Project Objectives
Atlas Creation
For tracking and documenting plant and macroalgae species based on bioremediation capacities
Knowledge Exchange
Create and expand existing knowledge-sharing networks to expedite data acquisition and collaborations with other stakeholders
Water Quality Improvement
Explore best methods for bioremediation via aquatic plants and macroalgae and selecting candidates adapted to targeted areas
Scalable Implementation
Transform research into real-world solutions that bolster wastewater treatment, expand drinking water access, and improve local ecosystem health
