Result description
Mixing and loading of pesticides, filling and washing of spray equipment, equipment leaks, improper handling of tank mix left-overs, and pesticide waste disposal operations are activities that contribute to point-source pollution. The use of natural treatment approaches such as biopurification systems and constructed wetlands may provide additional alternative means for pesticide elimination in an ecofriendly manner. The purpose of this study conducted within the frame of the KNOWPEC project (Knowledge for pesticides control), from H2020-MSCA-RISE-2015 programme (grant agreement n° 690618) was to examine the removal of terbuthylazine originating from point sources in the agricultural environment (e.g., spraying equipment rinsing sites) in two different lowcost bioremediation systems: a previously optimized biomixture used in BPS and mature pilot-scale CWs.
Two low-cost approaches were employed in the removal of terbuthylazine from wastewaters. The herbicide was accumulated in the unplanted CW for both 6 and 8-day hydraulic residence times and increased concentrations were detected in the effluent wastewater resulting in negative removal. On the contrary, the CW planted with P. australis showed the highest terbuthylazine removal capacity of up to 73.7%, while the CW planted with T. latifolia reached a maximum removal capacity of 58.4%. High concentrations of terbuthylazine were detected in roots, leaves and shoots of both plants of the CWs, and mild phytotoxicity symptoms were observed after one year of full operation of the systems. On the other hand, the biomixture used in BPS efficiently removed terbuthylazine, reaching 98% elimination in 28 d, faster than other reported biomixtures in the literature.
Addressing target audiences and expressing needs
- To raise awareness and possibly influence policy
The proposed systems should be tested and calibrated with other pesticides and in different regions. Thus, we are looking for collaboration with teams working in the same technology from different countries.
- EU and Member State Policy-makers
- International Organisations (ex. OECD, FAO, UN, etc.)
- Private Investors
R&D, Technology and Innovation aspects
Three pilot-scale horizontal subsurface flow (HSF) CWs (named: MG-Z, MG-R and MG-C) were used (Greece). Moreover, Coconut fiber, compost and soil at a volumetric composition of 45:13:42 was employed as biomixture for terbuthylazine removal (Costa Rica).
Result submitted to Horizon Results Platform by DIMOKRITIO PANEPISTIMIO THRAKIS
