Kohima: Nagaland University has developed an innovative nature-inspired technology to transform wastewater, including clean water, biofuels, biogas and nutrients.
The research uses an integrated approach that uses plants, algae and microbes to simultaneously treat wastewater and extract usable by-products. It presents a practical solution for sustainable water management in India.
The technology emphasises the recovery of high-value compounds through ecological processes like microbial activity and plant uptake.
This presents a cost-effective, low-energy alternative to conventional wastewater treatment systems. These systems are designed to be modular, scalable and suitable for rural and peri-urban settings.
The Nagaland University research integrates with national initiatives on sanitation, water reuse and climate resilience.
The wastewater treatment is framed as part of a circular economy. It aligns with India’s broader goals for sustainability and resource efficiency.
Plans are now afoot to take the technology beyond the Nagaland University laboratory conditions into real-world pilot projects.
