Enhanced Phytoremediation and Resource Recovery: The Efficacy of Duckweed in Mitigating Wastewater Pollution

Abstract

Duckweeds are small, fast-growing, surface-floating plants that are easy to harvest and have significant potential in phytoremediation and resource recovery. This study investigates the ability of species like Lemna minor and Spirodela polyrhiza to mitigate wastewater pollution while producing protein-rich biomass. Duckweeds effectively remove nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus from contaminated water, reducing total suspended solids (TSS), chemical oxygen demand (COD), and biochemical oxygen demand (BOD). Additional benefits include their rapid reproduction rates and adaptability to varying environmental conditions. Stress on the water environment grew due to water pollution and the rising percentage of wastewater discharged into water bodies. Applying aquatic plants to clean up toxins in water resources or aquatic ecosystems is known as phytoremediation in the water. Their rapid growth and adaptability make them ideal for low-cost, eco-friendly wastewater treatment, with harvested biomass offering applications as animal feed, biofertilizer, and biofuel. Duckweed-based systems also bioaccumulate heavy metals, making them suitable for industrial wastewater treatment. However, proper disposal of contaminated biomass is essential to avoid environmental harm. Further research is needed to optimize large-scale applications, particularly in aquaculture and bioenergy. This study highlights duckweed's role as an effective water remediation and resource recovery solution.