Enhancing duckweed cultivation for sustainable energy and wastewater management in wastewater treatment plant

Duckweed, a perennial and one of the smallest vascular plants, possesses significant potential as a co-substrate in methane fermentation. Nevertheless, the challenges associated with cultivating and breeding this vegetation on an industrial scale remain a subject of scrutiny. In this article, the authors present findings from a series of laboratory and outdoor tests aimed at formulating a comprehensive solution for the cultivation of duckweed on an industrial level. The proposed solutions encompass technical innovations and a year-round cultivation system for duckweed. These solutions are specifically tailored for small water and sewage management companies, with the primary objective of converting 100% of sludge into a valuable product and halting 100% of water circulation, by utilizing treated sewage. The overarching goal is to generate cost-effective, green energy, thereby providing the potential for energy independence for enterprises. This innovative approach not only addresses environmental concerns but also aligns with the economic viability of small-scale water and sewage management operations.