What is a constructed wetland?

A constructed wetland is defined as an engineered system designed to replicate the functions of natural wetlands in the treatment of wastewater. This system incorporates soil, plants, and microorganisms to filter and purify water as it flows through the wetland area. The design usually involves specific plant species that are well-suited to absorb nutrients and contaminants, allowing them to perform biological processes that break down pollutants effectively.

Constructed wetlands use gravitational flow and biological processes to treat water, making them an eco-friendly and sustainable option for wastewater management. They can be specifically tailored to the characteristics of the wastewater they are meant to treat, enhancing their effectiveness and efficiency.

In contrast to other choices, a natural water body is not engineered for this purpose, a temporary storage area is not meant for treatment but simply holding sewage, and a facility for treating drinking water serves a different function focused on producing potable water rather than treating wastewater. Thus, the engineered nature and treatment capability of constructed wetlands clearly distinguish them from these other options.