Pilot scale constructed wetlands for Arctic communities

The current disparity in safe, economical, and effective wastewater treatment is due to a number of factors including logistical issues such as construction and operational limitations, and limited capacity within communities including the requirements for skilled labour. Constructed wetlands present a viable alternative option to some of these problems. Researchers at the Centre for Alternative Wastewater Treatment, Fleming College, are studying the performance, efficacy and functioning of existing natural wetland treatment systems in six communities in Nunavut and examining the chemical and microbial processes occurring in treatment wetlands in cold climates.

We are also collaborating with the United Nations Environment Programme to create software that can model treatment wetlands in cold climates and serve as a design and educational tool in the Canadian Arctic and other cold climate regions throughout the world. This project also includ es a significant training component through the hiring and training of northern community research assistants to conduct sampling, assist with lab analysis and monitor the pilot wetland cells.

It will also contribute to capacity building through targeted community oriented workshops and training of highly qualified personnel.