A review on design, operation, and maintenance of constructed wetlands for removal of nutrients and emerging contaminants

Constructed wetland (CW) systems have proven to be one of the panaceas to the water crisis that can contribute to environmental protection and human health security. Considering the popularity of CW in wastewater treatment, its broader application, especially for remediation of contaminants of emerging concerns in the real-world scenario, is limited. Therefore, to promote real-world applications as well as further research and development in CW, detailed scope of CWs for remediation of wastewater, including contaminants of emerging concern, was critically reviewed. In addition, construction and components, design, and interaction of different biotic communities of a CW in wastewater treatment were analyzed and compiled in a consolidated form. The consolidated information on know-how of the CW technology along with future scope presented in the review would be instrumental for holistic and sustainable treatment of wastewater at larger scales.