EU Horizon 2020 Research for A Sustainable Future: INNOQUA—A Nature-Based Sanitation Solution

Abstract

This paper explores the experiences of partners in the multi-national, EU-funded INNOQUA project, who have developed and are currently demonstrating the potential for novel nature-based, decentralised wastewater treatment solutions in ten different countries. Four solutions are under investigation, each at different Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs): Lumbrifilter; Daphniafilter; Bio-Solar Purification unit; UV disinfection unit. An overview of the solutions is provided, along within data from pilot sites. The project is currently entering an intensive demonstration phase, during which sites will be open for visits and act as the focus for training and dissemination activities on sustainable wastewater treatment. Barriers to market for nature-based solutions are also explored.

What Inspiring Elements from Natural Services of Water Quality Regulation Could Be Applied to Water Management?

“…An increasing number of studies are testing the effect of earthworms of the genus Eisenia on the sediment permeability, with the aim of introducing them into future filtration systems [91], but few of these studies have demonstrated their application in demonstration pilots or living labs. In parallel, there is a rising number of farms that are developing sewage filtration with the help of lumbriculids in systems called lumbrifilters or lumbricomposters, especially for those farms that produce vegetables by aquapony [92].…”

Multi-criteria analysis for the selection of advanced oxidation technologies in the treatment of emerging pollutants

“…There are not many reports of the use of this parameter in the selection of TAOs, but it is well known that both Ozone and UV-based technologies have a high TRL compared to emerging technologies such as photo catalysis. Thus, this parameter allows establishing viable application options in a given period of time [36], [37].…”

The multicriteria analysis, a useful tool in classifying counties from a socio-economic point of view and investments made in water management: a case study on Romania

“…Domestic and industrial wastewater treatment requires specific wastewater treatment plants provided with different treatment stages (mechanical, chemical, biological). Modern technological solutions have been developed, applicable to small communities as well as to low-income countries that do not have the necessary financial funds for the construction and operation of large treatment plants [13]. In recent years, major investments have been made using locally funded projects and European funds in certain regions of Romania (EU Cohesion Fund, Operational Program "Environment" "Extension and modernization of water and wastewater systems" [14,15]) regarding the water supply for human consumption, respectively the construction of sewerage systems connected to domestic and industrial wastewater treatment plants.…”