Botanical wastewater treatment systems - Wetlands for on-site domestic wastewater management

The Botanical Wastewater Treatment System for on-site domestic wastewater management was patented in NZ in 1997. Its concept is well proven by experience in Germany with over 300 wastewater wetland systems installed from 1988 until introduced to NZ. Since 1997 the author has had a range of experience in having the system accepted by local authorities. The performance of local systems indicates it can achieve a high quality secondary effluent. Siting and sizing guidelines are presented along with potential applications and limitations for use of the wetland system. These are discussed in the context of four NZ case studies, including an outline of the construction and planting process, commissioning and maintenance requirements. Effective wastewater servicing can be achieved by giving the owner responsibility for what is a sustainable garden feature with basic maintenance requirements and zero to low energy use.