How does constructed wetlands work?
Simpler, more effective: the natural alternative to a small-scale wastewater treatment plant
Traditional wastewater treatment solutions, such as small-scale treatment plants, are often complex, energy-intensive, and not very environmentally friendly.
Today, there is a more natural and sustainable alternative: constructed wetlands. This eco-friendly wastewater treatment system effectively treats wastewater using plants, without mechanical equipment or energy consumption, and with minimal environmental impact.
Your wastewater passes through a filter made of sand and gravel, where bacteria thrive and plant roots grow on the surface. Together, they purify the water by breaking down pollutants in a 100% natural way.
What does each approach do?
Extensive systems vs. intensive systems: two methods for treating your wastewater
The extensive system
They rely on natural filters, typically planted, with no motors or electricity. Constructed wetlands are a type of extensive system and offer numerous advantages:
- More eco-friendly, efficient, and energy-free
- A self-contained system requiring very little maintenance
- An attractive, odor-free system that blends naturally into your garden
- A long-lasting solution (30–40 years)
- A system particularly suited to residences with varying occupancy levels (vacation rentals, second homes, tiny houses, etc.)
Le système intensif
An intensive system is a wastewater treatment process in which biological treatment relies primarily on electromechanical equipment. The water is treated through mechanical aeration, which stimulates bacterial activity within a small volume. This requires continuous energy consumption, frequent and demanding maintenance, and relies heavily on the proper functioning of the equipment for its effectiveness.
- Ideal for small spaces
- Not self-contained: requires regular and more technical maintenance
- Less efficient and less environmentally friendly
- Less suited to fluctuations in usage and wastewater volume
What should I choose?
In short, what’s the takeaway?
Constructed wetland
- 100% natural, zero energy consumption, higher performance
- Highly self-sufficient, low-maintenance
- Long-term (30–40 years)
- Blends in seamlessly with the garden
Small-scale wastewater treatment plant
- Mechanical process + power consumption
- Regular maintenance + technical inspections + parts to be replaced
- Average duration (20–30 years)
- Compact, can be buried and hidden
Operation, maintenance, regulations… it’s not always straightforward.
Check out our FAQ to learn more about constructed wetlands.
A solution for every home
Who are our solutions for?
We tailor our services to your sanitation project. Select your type of home, and let’s explore how to implement an eco-friendly and sustainable sanitation solution.
Traditional housing
For single-family homes, simple, effective, and eco-friendly wastewater treatment solutions designed for reliable everyday performance.
Co-housing & Community
For clustered housing developments and communal spaces, reliable eco-friendly sanitation systems designed for shared use.
Lightweight Housing
For tiny houses, vacation rentals, and tourist attractions, we offer discreet, sustainable, and easy-to-integrate natural sanitation solutions.
Constructed wetlands: a simple and sustainable solution for ecological wastewater treatment.
100% Belgian
Eco-friendly sanitation solutions designed and developed in Belgium.
Sustainability
A natural wastewater treatment system that is environmentally friendly today and tomorrow.
Performance
High-performance systems for reliable and efficient wastewater treatment.
Simplicity
Solutions that are easy to understand, use, and maintain.
Wastewater treatment solutions using phytoremediation: simple, effective, and 100% Belgian.
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