Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) are actions that work with and enhance natural ecosystems to address societal challenges, such as climate change, disaster risk reduction, biodiversity loss, and water security. These solutions leverage natural processes for environmental, social, and economic benefits.
As part of the SURE-AMR project, CT BETA aims to tackle Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) using Nature-Based Solutions (NBS). One example is using duckweed (Lemna sp.), an aquatic plant capable of removing nutrients, harmful bacteria, and antibiotic residues from water.
The CT BETA case study focuses on a two-stage treatment approach. The first stage involves bioreactors with duckweed, already installed at the Manlleu (Barcelona) wastewater treatment plant, where they treat water from the local hospital. The duckweed biomass, enriched with recovered nutrients, can then be repurposed for applications such as fertilizer or alternative protein sources.
The second stage simulates a river ecosystem, utilizing biofilm channels and snails to enhance pollutant removal. This is followed by constructed wetlands, where plants and microorganisms provide a final purification step, ensuring the water is safe for reuse or discharge.
By integrating NBS, this approach significantly reduces operational costs, making water treatment more accessible—even in resource-limited settings. The system promotes climate resilience and strengthens natural ecosystems by developing nature-based infrastructures designed to protect water environments and sources. By addressing antimicrobial resistance (AMR), this approach not only enhances patient safety and reduces further transmission but also contributes to climate adaptability and the preservation of natural ecosystems.
This research will culminate in a comprehensive handbook detailing measures to reduce dissemination and mitigate antimicrobial resistance (AMR). This handbook will be distributed to key stakeholders, including environmental engineers, biotechnologists, healthcare professionals, government health agencies, wastewater managers, environmental policymakers, and research institutions.
