Evaluating Carbon Sequestration and Water Quality Improvement in AIT’s Constructed Wetland Systems

Abstract

Wetlands deliver critical ecosystem services such as water purification and carbon sequestration, essential for urban sustainability and climate mitigation. The objectives of the study are to quantify wastewater treatment benefits provided in the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT), wetland systems and to quantify carbon sequestration provided in the AIT wetland systems. Constructed wetlands at the AIT, Thailand. Constructed wetlands at the AIT, Thailand, were evaluated for their wastewater treatment efficiency and carbon sequestration capacity. Carbon storage was measured in sediments, macrophytes, mangroves, and microalgae. Water quality improvement was assessed using turbidity, nutrient concentrations, and microbial indicators. Sediment carbon sequestration averaged 175.2 ± 19.2 g C m⁻² year⁻¹, while macrophytes contributed 25.7 ± 1.5 g C m⁻² month⁻¹. Significant water quality improvements were observed, including reductions in turbidity (from 46.2 NTU to 5.7 NTU) and E. coli levels (from >5000 to 728 MPN/100 mL). Macrophyte introduction enhanced nutrient removal and biodiversity by reducing harmful algal blooms. Constructed wetlands provide cost-effective, multifunctional ecosystem services, making them a viable nature-based solution for wastewater treatment and carbon management in urban environments.