Feasibility of natural wastewater treatment systems and life cycle assessment (LCA) for aquatic systems

Background: Natural wastewater treatment systems (NWTSs) in small villages are a major challenge for European water authorities. With growing social demands for environmental practices, evaluating the feasibility and environmental impact of low-cost treatment systems for small residential areas is essential. Methods: To address this challenge, this study was conducted to evaluate 10 NWTSs seasonally in rural areas of Bursa, Turkey. Authorities over the facilities permitted the examination of workable, low-cost effluent management options. Also, using Open-LCA software based on ReCiPe MidPoint (H) version 1.67, these plants’ effects on global warming, Phosphorus-depletion, human toxicity, marine eutrophication, and freshwater eutrophication were examined. Results: According to the LCA findings, Deydinler NWTS had a greater impact across all three effect areas (freshwater eutrophication, marine eutrophication, and human toxicity), ranging from 11 to 41%. Pinar and Yenice facilities, however, had 26% and 27% larger impacts in the same two impacts (marine eutrophication and human toxicity). These systems performed on average at 67%, 50%, and 58% chemical oxygen demand (COD), total nitrogen (TN) and total phosphorus (TP) elimination, respectively. Conclusion: According to the findings, 10 NWTSs have a treatment efficiency of about 70%. NWTSs are possibilities for decentralized wastewater treatment in small residential areas that are both cost-effective and environmentally favorable. By treating organic pollution naturally, without chemicals, and with minimal energy use, they lessen their negative environmental effects. The main findings of this study will be useful for academics in determining future research areas and identifying whom they might consult to help design carbon footprint of NWTS and future carbon reduction objectives.