Development of a methodological tool for the selection and sizing of constructed wetlands as a sustainable wastewater treatment technology

Authors

  • Luis Fermín Córdova López Centro de Investigaciones Hidráulicas (CIH), Universidad Tecnológica de La Habana José Antonio Echeverría (CUJAE).
  • Carolina Medina Losada Centro de Investigaciones Hidráulicas (CIH), Universidad Tecnológica de La Habana José Antonio Echeverría (CUJAE).
  • Luis Alberto Rivero Cárdenas Empresa de Investigaciones y Proyectos Hidráulicos de La Habana

Keywords:

selection tool, wastewater, sustainability

Abstract

Population growth and urban expansion have significantly increased wastewater generation, requiring sustainable, economically feasible, and environmentally responsible treatment solutions. Constructed wetlands represent a lowenergy and simple-operation technology; however, selecting the most suitable configuration is a complex task due to the diversity of available alternatives and the multiple variables involved in decision-making. This study aims to develop a methodological tool for the selection and sizing of constructed wetlands for wastewater treatment in urban and peri-urban communities. The methodology integrates technical, environmental, economic, social, and legal criteria, evaluating twelve technological variants through a weighted multi-criteria analysis. Results demonstrate that the developed tool optimizes the selection process, reduces technical uncertainty, and facilitates design adaptation to site-specific conditions while ensuring compliance with discharge regulations.

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References

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Published

2026-10-22

How to Cite

Córdova López, L. F., Medina Losada, C., & Rivero Cárdenas, L. A. (2026). Development of a methodological tool for the selection and sizing of constructed wetlands as a sustainable wastewater treatment technology. Ingeniería Hidráulica Y Ambiental, 46(4), 59–71. Retrieved from https://riha.cujae.edu.cu/index.php/riha/article/view/727

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