Karki (2024) Amended biocharBiochar is a carbon-rich material created from biomass decomposition in low-oxygen conditions. It has important applications in environmental remediation, soil improvement, agriculture, carbon sequestration, energy storage, and sustainable materials, promoting efficiency and reducing waste in various contexts while addressing climate change challenges. More in constructed wetlands: Roles, challenges, and future directions removing pharmaceuticals and personal care products. Heliyon. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e39848

Pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) in wastewater present risks to both human health and aquatic ecosystems. Many conventional wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are limited in their ability to remove these contaminants, which often persist in treated effluent. Constructed wetlands (CWs) provide a more sustainable alternative, but their PPCP removal effectiveness varies. Recent research shows that adding biochar—a porous, carbon-rich material created from biomassBiomass is a complex biological organic or non-organic solid product derived from living or recently living organism and available naturally. Various types of wastes such as animal manure, waste paper, sludge and many industrial wastes are also treated as biomass because like natural biomass these More pyrolysis—to CWs can improve PPCP removal.

Biochar’s high surface area and adsorption capacity help capture diverse pollutants. Moreover, its porous structure enhances microbial activity, supporting the breakdown of PPCPs. Studies indicate that biochar-amended CWs remove PPCPs more effectively, achieving up to 95% efficiency for certain drugs, such as diclofenac, under optimal conditions. Biochar also promotes nutrient cycling and supports plant growth, adding ecological benefits.

However, several challenges must be addressed to optimize biochar use in CWs. Factors like pyrolysisPyrolysis is a thermochemical process that converts waste biomass into bio-char, bio-oil, and pyro-gas. It offers significant advantages in waste valorization, turning low-value materials into economically valuable resources. Its versatility allows for tailored products based on operational conditions, presenting itself as a cost-effective and efficient More temperature and feedstockFeedstock refers to the raw organic material used to produce biochar. This can include a wide range of materials, such as wood chips, agricultural residues, and animal manure. More choice significantly impact biochar’s effectiveness. There is also a need for long-term studies to ensure biochar’s stability and explore cost-effective production methods.

Further research is essential to optimize biochar properties for PPCP removal, understand biochar-microbe interactions, and test biochar-amended CWs in real-world conditions. With continued development, biochar-enhanced CWs hold promise as an efficient, eco-friendly solution for wastewater treatment and environmental protection.