In Brief

  • Challenge: UN SDG 3 Challenge
  • Challenge Type: SFI Future Innovator Prize
  • Status: Active

The Challenge

Nature based water treatment to reduce health risks from diffuse pollution

The Solution 

Floating treatment wetlands (FTWs), which are a nature-based solution, are proposed to remove pollutants and pathogens present in polluted surface water to achieve a healthy environment, prevent water-related diseases, achieve "zero pollution", cut greenhouse gas emissions, and control global warming. By focusing research on the design, vegetation selection, construction, and performance of floating treatment wetlands, this solution opens a new direction in applying naturally available vegetation for wastewater treatment. FTWs also contribute to increasing green space, promoting economic growth, and opening new job possibilities in the emerging "green" energy sector. 

UN SDG Alignment


3.9 By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water and soil pollution and contamination.  

3.d Strengthen the capacity of all countries, in particular developing countries, for early warning, risk reduction and management of national and global health risks.   

The Team

  • Team Lead: Prof. Piet Lens, University of Galway
  • Partner Country Team Lead: Dr Bui Xuan Thanh, Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology, Vietnam

Societal Impact Champion

  • Dr Chiara Cassarini, Environmental Protection Agency, Ireland