TasWater turns to nature for improved sewage treatment

TasWater turns to nature for improved sewage treatment

TasWater is turning to nature to help improve sewage treatment, trialling floating wetlands in three sewage treatment lagoons around the state.

Using carefully selected Australian native plants, the floating wetlands work by naturally absorbing excess nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus, improving water quality and reducing environmental impact.

TasWater Head of Operational Support and Improvement Amanda Whelan said the trial – at Western Junction, Ross, and Fingal - will run for two years. 

‘’The floating wetlands will harness nature-based solutions to improve wastewater treatment in lagoon sewage systems,’’ Dr Whelan said.

‘’These wetlands are designed by leaders in this field Clarity Aquatic and supported by local company Resonance Consulting, to provide an effective and sustainable method of nutrient removal, using specially selected Australian native plants cultivated by Wildseed Tasmania.

‘’Floating wetlands have been successfully implemented in other parts of Australia, but this marks the first time the approach has been trialled for sewage treatment in Tasmania. 

‘’The project is expected to reduce nutrient levels in waterways by up to 60 per cent when fully established, offering a cost-effective, low-energy alternative to traditional wastewater treatment upgrades.
‘’If successful, this trial could inform future wastewater treatment strategies across the state.”

The floating wetlands act as natural filters, with plants growing on floating platforms on wastewater lagoons. 

‘’Not only do these wetlands support wastewater treatment, but they also enhance local biodiversity by providing habitats for insects and birds,’’ Dr Whelan said. 

This innovative pilot program aims to reduce nutrient discharge into Tasmanian waterways, bringing TasWater closer to achieving its goal of zero nutrient discharge by 2050.

The floating wetlands trial is a key component of TasWater’s long-term strategy to explore nature-based, energy-efficient solutions for wastewater management. 

TasWater is investing $1.9 billion in its network over the next five years to ensure it can continue to deliver exceptional water and sewerage services for a thriving Tasmania.