Nature-based systems deliver more reliable results: constructed wetlands not only achieve very good effluent quality, but also maintain it significantly more consistently than technical small-scale wastewater treatment plants. Studies show a lower probability of exceeding regulatory limits and a higher rate of simultaneous compliance with all limit values – a decisive advantage for safe operation and permitting.
An article recently published presents constructed wetlands in a generally positive light, but contains some shortened or potentially misleading statements.
It is correct that planted soil filters require space. However, it is misleading to imply that they can only treat “limited” volumes of water – every wastewater treatment plant is hydraulically designed for a defined capacity.
Properly designed systems do not produce odors. Fluctuating inflows are a challenge for all biological treatment processes – constructed wetlands are considered robust in this respect.
Constructed wetlands are not a development solution, but a standards-compliant, professional wastewater technology – successfully implemented for over 30 years.
A current research project is investigating the potential of electroactive constructed wetlands as an advancement of conventional planted soil filters.
Based on a one-year pilot system operated under real wastewater conditions, a significantly higher removal performance for organic matter and nutrients was demonstrated.
Through the targeted use of conductive elements, material consumption and land requirements were substantially reduced.
The results show that electroactive constructed wetlands are technically robust and economically viable for practical application.
In Acolman (State of Mexico), a new nature-based wastewater treatment plant is under construction for the Los Héroes Acolman residential development. The system follows the proven model used in our projects in Rayón, Mexicali and Cihuatlán: robust primary treatment, natural sludge humification, and a vertical-flow constructed wetland, followed by a naturally designed polishing pond providing substantial ecological added value.
Since 2023, four nature kindergardens built by LivingCircles GmbH have been equipped with their own treatment plants, even though they are located right in the city.
The educational concept of the institution is based on actively involving children in natural cycles and fostering a conscious use of resources. The aim is for children to experience how their own actions directly influence their environment. In line with this guiding principle, LivingCircles decided to integrate decentralized constructed wetlands into the local water cycle.
At Aquatech Mexico 2025, held September 2–4 at Centro Banamex, Mexico City, J&S Engineers will present innovative water reuse solutions. Our Constructed Wetlands (CW) offer eco-friendly wastewater treatment, enabling irrigation for greenery, parks, and buildings while reducing pollutant discharge into rivers. These systems lower freshwater use, energy costs, and wastewater fees, promoting sustainability. Projects like Cihuatlán and Mexicali demonstrate high purification with minimal energy, supporting local ecosystems. Our work enhances quality of life for communities, flora, and fauna, making CWs a cornerstone of sustainable urban water management.
At the 2025 GWP Annual Conference in Berlin, J&S Engineers, represented by André Schäller, showcased sustainable solutions with Constructed Wetlands (CW). These provide decentralized, cost-effective wastewater treatment, enhance urban microclimates, and promote biodiversity. In developing countries, they create economic opportunities, notably in Mexico with projects involving sludge humification and ecological ponds.
As a sponsor of the 2025 Pan-American Conference in Paraguay, J&S Engineers promoted knowledge exchange on Constructed Wetlands (CW). Jörg Janisch highlighted their cost-effective, low-maintenance benefits for developing countries. The event featured lectures, workshops, and excursions to advance sustainable water technologies.
We continue our work in the field of nature-based wastewater treatment in Mexico. Our third large-scale project is currently being implemented in Rayón, involving the rehabilitation and expansion of an existing wastewater treatment plant.
Janisch & Schulz Mexico has completed a new constructed wetland near Ciudad Guadalupe Victoria. The project expands an existing lagoon-based treatment plant with two additional purification stages: eight vertical-flow planted filters (12,800 m²) and a series of polishing ponds (14,000 m²). This combination significantly enhances treatment efficiency and supports the ecological restoration of the area.rdert die ökologische Aufwertung des Gebiets.
