Author(s): Ojediran, Adetunji ; Pereira, Sofia ; Rosa-Santos, Paulo ; Rodrigues, Ana ; Calheiros, Cristina S. C.
Date: 2025
Persistent ID: http://hdl.handle.net/10400.14/54717
Origin: Veritati - Repositório Institucional da Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Introduction: Constructed wetlands (CWs) are sustainable wastewater treatment systems leveraging natural processes to remove pollutants. Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) enhance CWs by converting organic matter into bioelectricity via electroactive bacteria [1]. Integrating MFCs with CWs creates hybrid systems that improve treatment efficiency and generate renewable energy. The CW-MFC’s performance factors include design setup, water quality, electrochemical conditions, microbial activity, plant type, and environmental parameters. The synergy between CWs and MFCs aligns with circular economy goals, offering decentralized solutions for water and energy sustainability. This review aims to establish a foundation for advancing CW-MFC systems in sustainable wastewater treatment and resource recovery. Conclusion: CW-MFC systems combine sustainable wastewater treatment with renewable energy generation, achieving high pollutant removal and modest power output. Overcoming key barriers—such as low energy yields, electrode fouling, and scalability—requires innovation in materials and hybrid designs (e.g., solar integration) to complement output power. Future efforts should focus on long-term field trials, standardized evaluation, and socioeconomic viability. CW-MFCs hold strong potential as decentralized solutions aligned with SDGs 6, 11, and 13.
