Wastewater management is a critical global issue, with the UN reporting that over 80% of generated wastewater is discharged untreated. It’s increasingly evident that traditional methods are falling short. Our SWEP member, WASTE, is at the forefront of promoting locally managed sanitation solutions. They have recently shared an insightful article detailing how innovative, sustainable approaches are addressing these challenges. The article focuses on the effectiveness of decentralised, nature-based systems such as constructed wetlands and anaerobic baffle reactors (ABRs), which are making a substantial difference, especially in regions like Africa where rapid urbanisation exacerbates the strain on existing infrastructure. The article showcases their pioneering work in Ethiopia, where they’ve successfully implemented a Nature-Based Solution for Wastewater Treatment in partnership with like-minded organisations.

To learn more about nature-based wastewater treatment, also check out our interview with Ziad Hussami, CEO and Co-Founder of Mrüna. Supported by our member cewas, Mrüna is spearheading the implementation of a decentralised network of remotely monitored, nature-based wastewater treatment facilities across Lebanon.