Design and Feasibility Assessment of a Hybrid Nature-Based and Artificial Purification Platform for In-Situ Treatment of Surface Water and Ambient Air

Abstract

concerns in rapidly urbanizing regions. Industrial effluents, agricultural runoff, pharmaceutical residues, and municipal wastewater introduce heavy metals, organic pollutants, pesticides, dyes, and emerging contaminants into natural water bodies. Conventional centralized treatment systems often involve high costs and energy demand, highlighting the need for sustainable, decentralized in-situ purification solutions.

Aim: This study aimed to design and assess the feasibility of a hybrid nature-based and artificial purification platform for simultaneous in-situ treatment of surface water and localized ambient air.

Research Methodology: An experimental and developmental research design was adopted. Water samples from stagnant and flowing water bodies were collected and analyzed for physicochemical and biological parameters. The system integrated biochar adsorption, phytoremediation, membrane-assisted filtration, and renewable energy-supported circulation. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, comparative analysis, ANOVA, and regression techniques to evaluate treatment efficiency and system performance.

Results: The hybrid platform demonstrated significant pollutant reduction, including 88% BOD removal, 90% COD reduction, 94% heavy metal removal, and over 95% microbial reduction. Turbidity and TDS levels were reduced within permissible standards. Ambient air particulate matter decreased by approximately 25–35% near treated sites. Statistical analysis confirmed the reliability and significance of improvements.

Conclusion: The developed hybrid purification system is technically feasible, environmentally sustainable, and cost-effective. It offers a scalable decentralized solution for improving surface water quality and ambient air conditions in urban and semi-urban environments.