WO2016022999A1

WO2016022999A1 - Systems and methods for wastewater treatment using aquatic plants

Info

Publication number: WO2016022999A1
Application number: PCT/US2015/044361
Authority: WO
Inventors: Tony A. Hagen
Original assignee: Aquatech Bioenergy LLC
Priority date: 2014-08-08
Filing date: 2015-08-07
Publication date: 2016-02-11

Abstract

A system suitable for removing or sequestering pollutants in wastewater, the system comprising: one container (120) comprising a substrate (140) and at least one aquatic plant (110) having foliage and a root portion anchored in the substrate; one wastewater inlet (152, 154, 156) to the container to deliver wastewater to the container; one discharge outlet (158) from the container to remove treated wastewater from the container; and at least one circulation system (235, 275) to circulate the wastewater into and out of the container for a specified length of time.

Description

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR WASTEWATER TREATMENT

USING AQUATIC PLANTS

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0001] Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to systems and methods for treating and/or conditioning wastewater to remove contaminants from the wastewater using aquatic plants. In certain embodiments, systems and methods disclosed herein are directed toward using aquatic plants in the systems and methods disclosed herein to remove undesirable microorganisms (e.g. pathogenic bacteria) and environmental pollutants from a wastewater stream or supply. In other embodiments, treated wastewater having byproducts of the aquatic plants or having been conditioned by methods disclosed herein can be used to treat lines or pipes to reduce undesirable microorganisms and environmental pollutants in the lines or pipes.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0002] One principal objective of wastewater treatment is to allow human and industrial effluents to be disposed of or recycled without danger to human health or unacceptable damage to the natural environment. For example, raw wastewater can be subjected to some degree of treatment to remove contaminants before it can be used for other purposes, including, but not limited to, agriculture, aquaculture, industrial processes and human consumption. Conventional wastewater treatment can include a combination of physical, chemical, and biological processes and operations designed to purify the wastewater. Some conventional methods include biological filtering systems that have the capacity to reduce pathogenic microorganisms in wastewater, including, for example, E. coli and Giardia.

[0003] Conventional mechanical wastewater treatment systems generally produce high quality effluent with a high degree of efficiency; however, disadvantages of mechanical systems include the high cost of construction, operational complexities, and the need for continual supervision and maintenance. Conversely, biologically based filtration systems generally require less operational and maintenance cost and are more customizable for a given environment; however, biologically based systems may be less efficient and have a tendency to produce lower quality effluent.

SUMMARY

[0004] Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to systems and methods for treating and/or conditioning wastewater to remove contaminants from the wastewater using aquatic plants. In certain embodiments, systems and methods disclosed herein are directed toward using aquatic plants in the systems and methods disclosed herein to remove undesirable microorganisms and environmental pollutants from a wastewater stream or supply. In other embodiments, treated wastewater having byproducts of the aquatic plants or having been conditioned by methods disclosed herein can be used to treat lines or pipes to reduce undesirable microorganisms and environmental pollutants in the lines or pipes.

[0005] Other embodiments provide systems and methods for efficient and cost effective wastewater treatment using aquatic plants. In accordance with these embodiments, systems and methods disclosed herein can be used to remove pollutants or contaminants from wastewater. Pollutants or contaminants removed from or sequestered from wastewater disclosed herein can include, but is not limited to, pathogenic microorganisms (e.g. bacteria), non-pathological microorganisms, undesirable chemical compounds and/or agents, and produce an environmentally safe liquid stream (or treated effluent) that can be reused for a variety of municipal, industrial, and agricultural purposes.

[0006] According to some embodiments, systems disclosed herein remove pathogenic and non-pathogenic microorganisms and undesirable chemical contaminants from wastewater. Systems can include at least one container having a substrate and at least one aquatic plant having foliage and a root portion anchored in the substrate, at least one wastewater inlet to the container to deliver wastewater to the container, at least one discharge outlet from the container to remove treated or conditioned wastewater from the container, and at least one circulation system to circulate the wastewater within the container for a specified length of time, wherein the at least one aquatic plant is capable of removing or degrading pathogenic microorganisms and undesirable chemical contaminants from the wastewater. In certain embodiments, at least one aquatic plant can be at least one aquatic herb. In other embodiments, systems disclosed herein are directly linked or fluidly connected to a wastewater production plant. In certain embodiments, channels can link a wastewater source to the systems disclosed herein in order to treat or condition the wastewater for downstream use of the treated or conditioned wastewater.

[0007] Some embodiments of the present disclosure include systems for removing pathogenic and/or non-pathogenic microorganisms and undesirable chemical or other contaminants from wastewater. In accordance with these embodiments, systems of the present invention can include at least one container having a substrate and at least one aquatic plant having foliage and a root portion anchored to the substrate, at least one wastewater inlet to the container to deliver wastewater to the container such that the wastewater first flows through a compartment of the container that includes foliage and/or leaves of the at least one aquatic plant (e.g. submersed aquatic herb), and at least one discharge outlet connected to the container for removing treated and/or conditioned wastewater from the container, wherein the at least one aquatic plant is capable of removing pathogenic and/or non-pathogenic microorganisms and/or undesirable chemical contaminants from the wastewater.

[0008] In yet other embodiments of the present disclosure, systems for removing pathogenic and/or non-pathogenic microorganisms (e.g. bacteria) and/or undesirable chemical contaminants from wastewater or water directed to human or animal consumption are provided. In accordance with these embodiments, systems can include at least one container having a substrate and at least one aquatic plant having foliage and a root portion anchored in or to the substrate, at least one wastewater inlet to the container to deliver wastewater to the container, at least one carbon source inlet for delivering a carbon source to the at least one aquatic plant in the systems, and at least one discharge outlet from the container to remove treated and/or conditioned wastewater from the container, wherein the at least one aquatic plant is capable of removing pathogenic and/or non-pathogenic microorganisms and undesirable chemical or protein contaminants from the wastewater or water directed to human or animal consumption.

[0009] Other embodiments of the present disclosure include systems for providing removal and/or inhibition of growth of microbial pollutants from/in wastewater. In accordance with these embodiments, the system can include at least one container including at least one aquatic plant having foliage and a root portion anchored in or to a substrate, at least one wastewater inlet to the container to deliver wastewater onto the foliage of the at least one aquatic plant (e.g. submersed aquatic herb) at a location above the substrate, and at least one discharge outlet from the container to remove treated/conditioned wastewater from the container.

[0010] In certain embodiments, aquatic plants of the present disclosure and systems and methods disclosed herein secrete byproducts into the wastewater to condition or treat the wastewater by at least removing microorganisms, inhibiting growth of microorganisms, degrading harmful chemical contaminants or biological agents and the like. In certain embodiments, compositions of the instant disclosure concern byproducts of or antimicrobial agents of submersed aquatic herbs and wastewater. In other embodiments, compositions disclosed herein can concern, but are not limited to, byproducts of submersed aquatic herbs and wastewater that includes, but is not limited to, undesirable pharmaceutical or prescribed biological agents.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] The above-mentioned and other features and advantages of this disclosure, and the manner of attaining them, will become more apparent and the invention itself will be better understood by reference to, but not limited by, the following description of embodiments of the invention taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0012] FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of a system for removing or inhibiting the growth of pathogenic and non-pathogenic microorganisms, human-derived chemical or biologic pollutants or other contaminants from wastewater using aquatic plants of use for some embodiments disclosed herein.

[0013] FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration of a bioreactor for removing or inhibiting the growth of pathogenic and non-pathogenic microorganisms, human-derived chemical or biologic pollutants or other contaminants from wastewater using aquatic plants of use for some embodiments disclosed herein. [0014] FIG. 3 is a schematic illustration of a wastewater treatment system incorporating a bioreactor system for removing or inhibiting the growth of pathogenic and non-pathogenic microorganisms, human-derived chemical or biologic pollutants or other contaminants from wastewater using aquatic plants of use for some embodiments disclosed herein.

[0015] Fig. 4 is a schematic illustration of a wastewater treatment system adapted for use in an aquatic habitat (e.g., pond) incorporating a bioreactor system for removing or inhibiting the growth of pathogenic and non-pathogenic microorganisms, human-derived chemical or biologic pollutants or other contaminants from wastewater using aquatic plants of use for some embodiments disclosed herein.

[0016] Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views. The exemplifications set out herein illustrate exemplary embodiments of the invention and such exemplifications are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the invention in any manner.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION 1. System Overview

[0017] FIG. 1 provides an exemplary hydroponic system 100 for removing or sequestering microbial pollutants from wastewater and sequestering carbon dioxide using aquatic plants 1 10. System 100 includes one or more containers 120. Each container 120 holds water 130 (e.g. wastewater), one or more aquatic plants 1 10 (e.g. submersed aquatic herb), and a substrate 140 (e.g strapping or other substrate) configured to anchor and support root growth of the aquatic plants 1 10. Exemplary substrates 140 are described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2013/0071902, filed September 20, 201 1 , and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61/943,943 to Hagen et al, filed February 24, 2014, the disclosures of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. In certain systems, a substrate can include a foldable material or other solid material that is capable of supporting growth of the plant. Individual containers 120 making up system 100 may be connected in series or in parallel or in a complete cycle allowing wastewater to recirculate, and connecting pipes or channels may facilitate the flow of water 130 among individual containers 120 or through connected containers. In this manner, water 130 may flow through multiple containers 120 (e.g. one to another), which may enhance the removal of, or further concentrate, certain substances in the water 130 in order, for example, to provide a more purified wastewater composition.

[0018] The shape, dimensions, and configuration of each container 120 may vary depending on the number and type(s) of aquatic plants 110 being used in system 100 and the surrounding environment. For example, the depth of container 120 may be chosen to promote growth of the particular type(s) of aquatic plants 110 being used in system 100. It is to be understood that container 120 may be scaled to accommodate available materials, equipment, space, and growing methods. In certain embodiments, a submersed aquatic plant can be placed in the system such that the foliage is covered with wastewater flowing into the system. In yet other embodiments, the system can have controlled flow of the wastewater permitting the wastewater in one or more containers or compartments to flow at a predetermined rate or to remain in a compartment under agitation. In accordance with these embodiments, an agitator of any type known by one of skill in the art (e.g. aerator or bubbler or laminar flow or the like) may be connected to a wastewater compartment to allow the mixing of the wastewater with the byproduct or conditioned water of or by the aquatic plants (e.g. submersed aquatic herbs). This can provide controlled exposure to the conditioned water to provide maximum wastewater conditioning. In other embodiments, a series of systems can be linked to allow pre-determined and/or controlled flow of the wastewater from one unit to another. A single system unit, two units, three units or more are contemplated herein.

[0019] Container 120 may be constructed or lined with any suitable water-tight material to prevent leakage of fluids and gases from container 120. Suitable materials include, without limitation, concrete, plastic, rubber, metal, glass, fiberglass, earth-filled berm, or the like.

[0020] The type of water 130 provided to container 120 may vary. For example, water

130 can include water intended for human or animal consumption, wastewater, salt water, and brackish water. According to one exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, water 130 can include wastewater from a wastewater source 150. "Wastewater," as used herein, can include any water to be treated before being used or released to the environment, such as wastewater from industrial, agricultural, beverage wastewater, aquacultural, human biological, municipal sources, or other wastewater. Targeted agents or contaminants of wastewater can include, but is not limited to, various environmental contaminants, human wastewater contaminants and pollutants of non-biodegradable and biodegradable material, pathogenic microorganisms, undesirable chemical contaminants, including inorganic as well as organic compounds, and the like. In some embodiments, wastewater from the wastewater source 150 may also include sewage or other wastewater that is contaminated with various pathogenic, nonpathogenic or other harmful bacteria, including but not limited to, strains of Mycobacterium smegmatis, Micrococcus luteus, Streptococcus pyogenes, Corynebacterium xerosis, Bacillus megaterium, Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Micrococcus roseus, Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Streptococcus faecalis, Aerococcus viridans, Listonella anguillarum, Pasteurella multocida, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Acinetobacter calcoacetis, Escherichia coli, Enterobacter aerogenes, Klebsiella pneumonia, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus vulgaris, Salmonella typhimurium, Yersinia ruckeri and Giardia. In certain embodiments, systems disclosed herein can be used to remove one or more of gram-positive and gram negative bacteria.

[0021] In other embodiments, wastewater from the wastewater source 150 can include, but is not limited to, undesirable chemical contaminants, hormones (e.g. birth control formulation), antibiotics and endocrine disruptor compounds (EDCs). In some embodiments, undesirable chemical contaminants can include, but is not limited to, estrogenic compounds and xenoestrogens, such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates. In other embodiments, undesirable chemical contaminants can include, but is not limited to, antibiotics such as beta-lactams (e.g., penicillins, amoxicillin, etc.), sulfonamides (e.g., sulfamethazine), fluoroquinolones (e.g., Cipro), tetracyclines (e.g., tetracycline, doxycycline, minocycline, etc.), chemotherapy agents, and macro lides (e.g., erythromycin, clarithromycin, etc.). In yet other embodiments, undesirable chemical contaminants can include, but is not limited to, anti-depressants (e.g., SSRIs), anti-anxiolytics (e.g., benzodiazepines), and painkillers (e.g., opiates). [0022] In other embodiments, wastewater source 150 can be added to the container 120 through one or more wastewater inlets, illustratively a first wastewater inlet 152, a second wastewater inlet 154, and a third wastewater inlet 156. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the first wastewater inlet 152 can be configured to deliver the wastewater first to the area of the container 120 that includes the substrate 140 or other wastewater already occupying the container, any water 130 already present in and around the substrate 140, and the root system of the aquatic plants 110. The second wastewater inlet 154 is configured to deliver the wastewater first to the area of the container 120 located above the substrate 140, which includes any water (or wastewater) 130 already present in the container 120 and the foliage of the aquatic plants 110. The third wastewater inlet 156 is configured to deliver the wastewater first to the area of the container 120 located above the substrate 140 and any water 130 already present in the container 120 and the foliage of the aquatic plants 110 (i.e., foliarly), using, for example, a spraying application. As discussed above, the wastewater inlets 152, 154, and/or 156 may contain wastewater from a variety of industrial, agricultural, human or animal wastewater, and domestic sources, and the wastewater may include various dissolved gases, chemicals, bacteria, microbes, microbial pollutants, and various other microorganisms.

[0023] The wastewater may be returned to wastewater source 150 via a wastewater outlet

158. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 1, the wastewater outlet 158 serves as a drain that removes water from the bottom of container 120, as necessary. In accordance with these embodiments, the structure of the container 120 may resemble more of a shallow percolation tank.

[0024] The aquatic plants 110 used in container 120 may be selected from any number of aquatic plants which readily live in or on aquatic environments, such as directly in water or in permanently saturated soil. In certain embodiments, aquatic plants 110 will be capable of removing and/or sequestering pollutants or inhibiting the growth of contaminants, such as pathogenic or non-pathogenic bacteria and undesirable chemical or biological contaminants, from an aqueous environment, either through their root systems or foliage. In other embodiments, aquatic plants 110 may create anaerobic or aerobic environments around their root systems or foliage that prevent the growth of certain types or strains of bacteria. In still other embodiments, aquatic plants 110 may secrete an agent that has antibacterial and/or bactericidal properties.

[0025] Exemplary aquatic plants 110 can include, but are not limited to, submersed aquatic herbs from the Potamogeton family (e.g., Potamogeton pectinatus, also known as Stuckenia pectinata or Sago pondweed), the Aponogeton family, or the like. However, any submerged aquatic plant capable of absorbing, removing, inhibiting growth, degrading or sequestering pollutants from wastewater can be used with the methods and systems of the present disclosure, as would be readily recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art based on the present disclosure. In some cases, the aquatic plants 110 may secrete one or more antimicrobial, anti- chemical, anti-biological and/or bactericidal agents that persist in the water after the aquatic plants 110 have been removed. For example, aquatic plants from the Potamogeton family may secrete one or more antimicrobial and/or bactericidal agents that persist in the water at least 14 days, at least 21 days or longer, after the plants have been removed from the wastewater. In certain embodiments, conditioned water of the system can be removed from a system and used to treat or clean-up pipes or other contaminated waters or containers.

[0026] In some cases, the use of Sago pondweed (Potamogeton pectinatus L.) is well- suited for removing pathogenic or non-pathogenic microorganisms and undesirable chemical and/or biological contaminants from wastewater and sequestering carbon dioxide from a given environment. For example, Sago species including, but not limited to, Potamogeton and Stuckenia, are hardy, perennial, aquatic (submerged) plants capable of growing and quickly colonizing many different habitat types and environments, including polluted waters often deemed unsuitable for other plant species. Because Sago is native to every state in the United States of America and on every continent except Antarctica, it avoids possible concerns related to invasive plant species. Sago can be housed in various aquatic containers (e.g., hydroponic bioreactors) with no soil requirements. Optimal growth temperatures for Sago species are between about 20-35°C. Additionally, Sago species are generally C3 photosynthesizing plants that exhibit robust growth in high light if sufficient quantities of carbon dioxide are present. Because of its multiple regenerative stress tolerance and competitive adaptability, which enable the plant to occupy mechanically disturbed areas, Sago is considered a ruderal. Sago species spread rapidly in various water systems in a relatively short time.

[0027] The aquatic plants 1 10 may be obtained and placed in container 120 in any conventional manner. For example, the aquatic plants 1 10 may be gathered from lakes or ponds, grown in holding tanks, or grown directly in container 120. In some embodiments, the aquatic plants 1 10 are non-genetically modified plants. In other embodiments, the aquatic plants 1 10 can be genetically modified plants. Genetic modifications can include, without limitation, the inclusion of a transgene or up-regulation or down-regulation of a target gene that confers resistance to a pest, resistance to a pesticide or herbicide, tolerance to heat, tolerance to cold, improved biofuel processing or production, and/or tolerance to high concentrations of plant byproducts, improved resistance to bacterial or viral infections, improved ability to sequester and/or metabolize harmful environmental chemical contaminants, and improved ability to remove and/or sequester various pathogenic or harmful microbes and microorganisms.

[0028] Container 120 may include a cover 160, as shown in FIG. 1. Cover 160 may serve as a light barrier that controls the passage of photosynthesis-inducing light (e.g., sunlight) to the aquatic plants 1 10 in container 120. In certain embodiments, cover 1 10 may be selectively applied to container 120 to block the passage of photosynthesis-inducing light into container 120 and removed from container 120 to allow the passage of photosynthesis-inducing light into container 120. In other embodiments, cover 160 may be permanently applied to container 120 to block the passage of natural photosynthesis-inducing light into container 120. In such embodiments, an artificial light source (not shown) may be provided beneath cover 160 to selectively provide photosynthesis-inducing light to container 120. Cover 160 can also serve as an air barrier that controls the passage of air, specifically oxygen and carbon dioxide, from the surrounding atmosphere to the aquatic plants 1 10 in container 120. Cover 160 can also be used as a heat reduction mechanism. In other embodiments, a separate air barrier (not shown) can be provided.

[0029] The passage of photosynthesis-inducing light to the aquatic plants 110 in container 102 can also be controlled by adding a light-reducing dye to water 104. The dye can allow surface light to travel through an upper or shallower section of water 130 (e.g., about 2-6 inches from the surface), but may prevent the light from traveling through a lower or deeper section of water 130 (e.g., more than about 6 inches from the surface). Such dyes can prevent or reduce algae growth and growth of other undesired materials or agents in container 120.

[0030] The temperature of water 130 in container 120 can be controlled. For example, water 130 in container 120 can be maintained at a temperature of about 50° Fahrenheit (°F) to about 90° F. As illustrated in FIG. 1 , container 120 may be at least partially surrounded by an insulating material 170. In certain embodiments where container 120 is partially or fully buried underground, insulating material 170 may include the surrounding soil. Other suitable insulating materials include, but are not limited to, foam, fiberglass, puncture-resistant geotextile fiber or mat liners, water, super-absorbent polymer beads, expandable microbeads, an air-filled tube, and the like. In certain embodiments, container 120 can be unevenly insulated. For example, a lower section of the insulating material 170 can have a different thermal resistance (R- value) than an upper section of the insulating material 170.

[0031] Container 120 may include a plurality of zones or regions. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 1 , container 120 includes a first region 180 including a predominantly gaseous headspace above water 130, a second region 190 including an upper section of water 130, and a third region 200 including a lower section of water 130 that is generally anaerobic.

[0032] Root portions (e.g., tubers, rhizomes) of the aquatic plants 1 10 and substrate 140 can be located predominantly or entirely in the third region 200 of container 120. As illustrated in FIG. 1 , wastewater inlet 152 delivers wastewater into the third region 200 of container 120, where the wastewater is distributed in and around the substrate 140 and the root system of the aquatic plants 1 10. Pathogenic and/or non-pathogenic microorganisms and undesirable chemical and/or biological contaminants contained in the wastewater may contact the substrate 140 and the root system of the aquatic plants 1 10 and subsequently be removed, inhibited (e.g. growth) or sequestered from the wastewater, thus reducing overall levels of the pollutants in the wastewater. In some embodiments, the wastewater can flow upwards from the third region 200 to the second region 190 towards the foliage of the aquatic plants 110, which can further remove, degrade, inhibit growth of and/or sequester undesirable pollutants from the wastewater.

[0033] Stem and leaf portions of the aquatic plants 110 may extend upwardly into the second region 190 of container 120. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the wastewater inlet 154 delivers wastewater into the second region 190, where the wastewater is distributed around the stem and leaf portions of the aquatic plants 110. The wastewater inlet 156 may also deliver wastewater into the second region 190 by spraying wastewater downwards from the first region 180 to the second region 190. In this embodiment, the wastewater may be applied foliarly and allowed to filter through the canopy of the aquatic plants 110. Bacteria and other microorganisms contained in the wastewater may contact the foliage of the aquatic plants 110 and subsequently be removed and/or sequestered from the wastewater, thus reducing overall levels of pollutants such as pathogenic and/or non-pathogenic bacteria and undesirable chemical and/or biological contaminants in the wastewater. In some embodiments, the wastewater may flow downwards from the second region 190 to the third region 200 towards the substrate 140 and root system of the aquatic plants 110, which may further remove or sequester undesirable pollutants from the waste water.

[0034] Container 120 can include various forms of bacteria and fungus to facilitate metabolic processes of the aquatic plants 110. The bacteria and fungus may be aerobic or anaerobic, depending on the condition of the surrounding water 130. For example, because substrate 140 is located in the generally anaerobic third region 200 of container 120 in FIG. 1, substrate 140 can be inoculated with anaerobic bacteria and fungus. In some embodiments, aerobic bacteria contained in the wastewater can be killed upon entering the predominately anaerobic environment of the third region 200. In other embodiments, anaerobic bacteria contained in the wastewater can be killed upon entering the predominately aerobic environment of the second region 190. In other embodiments, facultative bacteria contained in the wastewater can be killed or expansion of growth inhibited when the wastewater 130 is circulated through both the predominately anaerobic environment of the third region 200 and the predominately aerobic environment of the second region 190. [0035] The physical and chemical characteristics of the first region 180, second region

190, and third region 200 of container 120 may be separately and independently controlled. For example, the composition, temperature, pH, oxidation/reduction potential (ORP), ion concentration, conductivity, bacteria content, dissolved mineral content, and/or dissolved gas content of each of the first region 180, second region 190, and third region 200 of container 120 can be independently and/or separately controlled, for example, to optimize conditions for plant survival, optimize removal of pathogenic bacteria or other optimized systems/uses.

[0036] A boundary 210 may be provided between the second region 190 and the third region 200 to prevent mixing of water 130 and/or to maintain different conditions between the second region 190 and the third region 200. In certain embodiments, boundary 210 can be achieved by providing water in the second region 190 at a lower density than the water in the third region 200, such as by varying the dissolved mineral content, salinity, and/or the temperature of water. For example, a temperature difference of about 4-6 degrees °F between water in the second region 190 and the third region 200 may be sufficient to maintain boundary 210 between the two regions. In other embodiments, boundary 210 may be achieved by providing a physical barrier between the second region 190 and the third region 200. The barrier may be porous to allow aquatic plants 1 10 to grow therethrough or may be a solid material capable of removal. Suitable barriers may include viscous liquids (e.g., gelatins, waxes, carbohydrate solutions), woven or non-woven fabrics, paper, plastic or nylon screens, plastic matrices, and the like.

[0037] As discussed further below, system 100 may include various inlets and outlets in communication with regions 180, 190, and 200 of container 120 to control the flow of materials to and from container 120. In addition to the inlets and outlets shown in FIG. 1 , system 100 may also include pumps, flow control valves, heat exchangers, filters, storage units, and other equipment to facilitate the flow of materials to and from container 120 and/or allow for convenient collection.

[0038] In addition to the above-described wastewater inlet 156, first region 180 of container 120 illustratively includes a carbon dioxide gas inlet 220 and an oxygen gas outlet 230. The oxygen-rich gas that is removed from the oxygen gas outlet 230 may be purified, stored, and/or distributed for use, such as to combustion systems and/or fishery systems. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and as discussed in the above-incorporated U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61/943,943, oxygen-rich gas from oxygen gas outlet 230 can be supplied to a combustion facility, and carbon dioxide flue gas from the combustion facility can be returned to system 100.

[0039] System 100 can further include one or more wastewater circulation systems, illustratively wastewater circulation systems 235 and 275, to facilitate circulation of the wastewater 130 in container 120. In certain embodiments, wastewater circulation systems 235 and 275 may be configured to circulate wastewater 130 within an individual container 120 in a substantially closed-loop and laminar-flow manner. For example, wastewater circulation system 235 may be configured to circulate wastewater 130 through the second region 190 of container 120, and wastewater circulation system 275 may be configured to circulate wastewater 130 through the third region 200 of container 120 to facilitate maximum removal and/or inhibition and/or degradation of pollutants before being discharged from the container 120. The amount of time wastewater 130 retained in circulation can vary, depending on the relative levels of removal of pollutants in the wastewater 130, the local climate, and other variables. Generally, the longer retention time, the more pollutants will be removed from the wastewater 130. Retention time may also vary among individual containers 120 in a particular system 100.

[0040] In addition to the above-described wastewater inlet 154, second region 190 of container 120 may also include a water inlet 240 and a water outlet 250 of the wastewater circulation system 235. The water inlet 240 may be in selective communication with an aerobic water source 260 and an anaerobic water source 270 to supply aerobic water or anaerobic water to second region 190 of container 120, as desired. The water outlet 250 may also be in selective communication with the aerobic water source 260 and the anaerobic water source 270 to remove water from second region 190 of container 120 and to return the water to the appropriate aerobic water source 260 or anaerobic water source 270. Oxygen may be injected into the water returning to the aerobic water source 260, and oxygen may be removed from the water returning to the anaerobic water source 270. It is also within the scope of the present disclosure that the water outlet 250 may be in direct communication with the water inlet 240, bypassing the aerobic water source 260 and the anaerobic water source 270. In some embodiments, the wastewater source 150 may be in communication with water inlet 240 rather than being in communication with a separate wastewater inlet 154, such that the wastewater is delivered to the second region 190 via water inlet 240.

[0041] In addition to the above-described wastewater inlet 152, third region 200 of container 120 can also include a water inlet 280 and a water outlet 300 of the wastewater circulation system 275. The water inlet 280 can be in communication (or fluid communication) with an anaerobic water source 290 to supply anaerobic water to third region 200 of container 120. In certain embodiments, the anaerobic water source 290 to third region 200 may be the same as the anaerobic water source 270 to second region 190. It is also within the scope of the present disclosure that the water inlet 280 to third region 200 may communicate in an alternating fashion with an aerobic water source (not shown), like the water inlet 240 to second region 190. The water outlet 300 may be in communication with a water treatment apparatus 310.

[0042] Before the wastewater circulation systems 235 and 275 reintroduce any water back to container 120 or discharge water from system 100, the water 130 can be further treated. In FIG. 1 , a water treatment apparatus 310 is illustrated in the wastewater circulation system 275, and a similar water treatment apparatus can be included in the wastewater circulation system 235. In the water treatment apparatus 310, the water 130 can be treated using ultraviolet light, antibiotics, and/or algaecides, for example to reduce the presence of certain contaminants. Also, the water 130 can be processed to add or remove oxygen or carbon dioxide, as desired. In certain embodiments, one or more aeration devices may be provided along the wastewater circulation systems 235 and 275 to aerate the wastewater to desired oxygen content (e.g., greater than between about 1-4 mg/L dissolved oxygen) and/or to achieve a desired oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) (e.g., an ORP greater than about 0). Also, carbon dioxide may be injected into the wastewater circulation systems 235 and 275 to increase the carbon content of the water 130. Further, the water 130 may be filtered through a filtration device to remove chemical pollutants or harmful microorganisms. The pH of the water 130 can also be adjusted to facilitate elimination and/or killing of various contaminants and/or bacteria (e.g., pathogenic). [0043] In some embodiments, treated wastewater may be discharged from either second region 190 and/or third region 200 of container 120. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 1 , treated wastewater having reduced levels of pollutants may be discharged from the third region 200 of container 120 through discharge outlets 158 and/or 320. Treated wastewater exiting the discharge outlets 158 and 320 may be tested to determine, for example, if targeted bacterial levels are below a certain threshold, can be removed for subsequent municipal, industrial, agricultural or domestic use, or can enter a second container 120 for further treatment or removal of the contaminants. In other embodiments, the discharge outlets can be configured to remove treated wastewater from the second region 190 of container 120 for similar purposes.

[0044] Second region 190 and/or third region 200 of container 120 may also include one or more of the following carbon inlets to supply desirable levels and forms of carbon to water 130 for use by the aquatic plants 1 10: a carbon dioxide gas inlet 330, an aqueous carbon dioxide inlet 340, a carbonic acid inlet 350, a bicarbonate or carbonate inlet 360, and an organic or inorganic carbon matter inlet 370. It is also understood that carbon dioxide gas can enter water 130 from the gaseous headspace or first region 180 of container 120.

[0045] The carbon inlets 330, 340, 350, 360, and 370 can be configured to introduce carbon to container 120 as a gas, a liquid solution, or a solid powder, as appropriate. The carbon dioxide gas inlet 330, for example, can be configured to inject the carbon dioxide gas as bubbles into water 1 10 in container 120. Carbon dioxide gas has limited solubility in water, so using other carbon inlets (such as the carbonic acid inlet 350, the bicarbonate or carbonate inlet 360, and/or the organic or inorganic carbon matter inlet 370) may make more carbon available in water for use by the aquatic plants 1 10. In some embodiments, the carbonate concentration in water 130 may be maintained at or above about 5 millimols per liter (mmol/L), about 10 mmol/L, or about 15 mmol/L.

[0046] The organic or inorganic carbon matter inlet 370 may deliver carbon-containing materials to container 120 including, for example, carbohydrates (e.g., starch), sugars (e.g., glucose, sucrose, and fructose), aldehydes, alcohols (e.g., ethanol, butanol), hydrocarbons, and organic acids (e.g., acetic acid, lactic acid, butyric acid), for example. Such carbon-containing materials can be found in plant matter (e.g., corn, sugar beets, and bagasse), wastewater, manure, and compost, for example, which can be obtained from food and drink processing facilities (e.g. , wineries) and farms, for example.

[0047] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the carbon- containing materials can be obtained as waste from one or more sources, making the carbon- containing materials inexpensive and readily available. For example, the carbon-containing materials can be obtained as waste from food and drink processing facilities (e.g., wineries) and farms. The waste materials can be pretreated before introducing the waste materials to container 120 via the organic or inorganic carbon matter inlet 370. For example, liquid waste materials can be filtered, pressed, or otherwise processed to remove suspended solids. Solid waste materials can be separated to remove chunks to create fines for processing/use.

[0048] FIG. 2 illustrates one exemplary embodiment of a bioreactor of the present disclosure. A hydroponic system for removing pollutants from wastewater and sequestering carbon dioxide using aquatic plants described previously can be contained within one or more bioreactors or in a bioreactor system. Generally, the bioreactor of FIG. 2 includes three layers, each of which can be independently controlled with respect to temperature, pH, oxidation/reduction, ion concentration, conductivity, dissolved mineral contents, and various other factors, as would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art based on the present disclosure. The two bottom layers contain water. The lowest layer (1) is typically maintained at a lower temperature as compared to the other layers. Anaerobic processes, including fermentation processes that occur in the tubers characterize the lowest layer. Nutrient-rich media can be supplied to this layer from a heterotrophic carbon source, such as carbon-containing wastewater from a wastewater treatment facility. Nutrients supplied through this layer can include, but are not limited to potassium, nitrates, phosphates (e.g., K, N0₃, PO₄/PO₅). Aerobic processes, including C0₂ production occur in the relatively warmer upper aquatic layer (2; middle layer of the bioreactor). Metal ions can be supplied as nutrients to the upper aquatic layer, including but not limited to, magnesium, calcium, potassium, magnesium, manganese, and zinc (e.g., Mg, Ca, K, Mn and Zn). In the highest layer (3), C0₂ is supplied as a nutrient via the gaseous headspace, or sprayed on top of a selectively permeable layer. Oxygen can be released through the selectively permeable layer across the headspace.

[0049] Other features of the bioreactor include but are not limited to the following: (i) the rhizomes form the "rhizosphere" and provide the hydraulic space along which wastewater flows; (ii) wastewater can be treated by microbes that form a biofilm on the large surface area provided by the plant material and is responsible for microbial processing; (iii) atmospheric oxygen can be supplied to the surrounding wastewater through the hollow rhizomes and roots of the emergent macrophytes; and (iv) a layer of straw derived from dead plant parts above the water level can be used to enhance aerobic composting of suspended solids and sludge in wastewater.

[0050] Generally, bioreactors can be characterized as closed pools of water of about 10 feet by about 200 feet internally, and can be constructed from storm barriers of the type designed to replace sand bagging levees under pressure from high water. In some cases, the bioreactors can measure by about 15-25 feet by about 90-110 feet internally. Flow rates through bioreactors can range from about 5 to about 100 gallons per minute (gpm), depending on the levels of microbial or other contamination, fluid viscosity, and the like.

[0051] As illustrated in FIG. 3, bioreactors and bioreactor systems can be integrated within conventional wastewater treatment facilities. Integrating bioreactors according to the present disclosure can enhance the treatment capacity and capability of conventional wastewater treatment facilities because the use of aquatic plants such as Sago have bactericidal properties and can remove various microbial pollutants from wastewater by assimilating them into the plant mass and/or by oxidation and/or by secreting one or more bactericidal agents. For example, conventional wastewater treatment includes mechanical and photochemical processes. Wastewater generally passed through the primary (filtration and sedimentation) and secondary (biochemical) treatment stages, and then can flow into deep sand filters, which remove the remaining fine particles. A final step can be an ultraviolet treatment intended to inhibit the growth of potentially harmful microorganism. Following UV treatment, the treated wastewater can be released into the environment. As illustrated in FIG. 3, wastewater can flow through six individual bioreactors containing, for example, Sago, after exiting the sand filters. Flow rates can vary in each individual bioreactor. For example, the flow rate in the two most proximal bioreactors can be about 54 gpm; the flow rate in the two central bioreactors can be about 12 gpm; and the flow rate in the two most distal bioreactors can be about 5 gpm. After exiting the bioreactors, the wastewater can pass back through the sand filters before being exposed to UV light, chlorine and/or peroxyacetic acid (PAA) and released into the environment.

[0052] Throughout the process, wastewater can be sampled for evaluating the presence of various components (e.g., levels of pollutants, dissolved minerals, biological or chemical agents or byproducts of these agents, oxygen content, and the like). The circles/dots illustrated in FIG. 3 indicate eleven points (numbered 1-11) at which such sampling can be performed. In some embodiments, wastewater can be sampled and evaluated for the presence of various pathogenic, non-pathogenic or other harmful bacteria, including, but not limited to, Mycobacterium smegmatis, Micrococcus luteus, Streptococcus pyogenes, Corynebacterium xerosis, Bacillus megaterium, Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Micrococcus roseus, Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Streptococcus faecalis, Aerococcus viridans, Listonella anguillarum, Pasteurella multocida, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Acinetobacter calcoacetis, Escherichia coli, Enterobacter aerogenes, Klebsiella pneumonia, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus vulgaris, Salmonella typhimurium, Yersinia ruckeri and Giardia. In other embodiments, wastewater can be sampled for the presence of undesirable chemical or biological contaminants, such as various hormones, antibiotics, endocrine disruptor compounds (EDCs), estrogenic compounds, xenoestrogens, anti-depressants, anti-anxiolytics, and painkillers.

[0053] FIG. 4 illustrates another embodiment of the bioreactors and bioreactor systems of the present disclosure that can be integrated within an aquatic habitat. The aquatic habitat can be a pond (manmade or natural) that requires wastewater treatment. The embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4 includes many of the same features as described in the embodiment of FIG. 1, including aquatic plants 110, a container, in this case a tube-like enclosure, 120, a source or water or wastewater 130, and substrate 140, as described herein. However, in accordance with the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, the bioreactor systems are configured to be compatible with an existing aquatic habitat. In some cases, a hole or depression can be made in the bottom surface of the aquatic habitat such that one or more bioreactor systems can be placed within the hole or depression. This configuration can help to stabilize the bioreactors and can provide a more consistent water level between the water in the aquatic habitat and the water that flows in the bioreactor systems. In some cases, the inlets and outlets described above can be adapted for use in the aquatic habitat. Bioreactor systems having such configurations can function in groups or they can function as stand-alone units. In some cases, one or more anchoring mechanism can be included to fix the bioreactors in place within the aquatic habitat.

[0054] In one example, for E. coli sampling, the sample can undergo Membrane

Filtration (MF) Method 8074 on m-Endo media, which is a presumptive test for total coliforms. Using the MF method, the sample is poured into a 0.45μιη membrane filter assembly used to capture the bacteria. Afterwards, the filter is incubated on m-Endo media for 22-24h at 35°C. Finally, the total coliforms, the fecal coliforms, and E. coli are selected and identified using the confirmation of total coliforms (LT and BGG) method 8074, confirmation of fecal coliforms (EC medium) method 8074, and confirmation of E. coli (EC or EC/MUG) method 8074. In order to identify total coliforms, isolated greenish-gold metallic sheen colonies from the MF method are transferred into LT and BGB broth tubes and incubated for 24h at 35°C; the Most Probable Number (MPN) coliform tube configuration can be used to confirm that colonies are indeed coliforms. For identification of fecal coliforms and E. coli, the m-Endo plate is swabbed for coliforms and transferred into both EC Medium broth tubes and either EC or EC/MUG medium using the MPN setup. The tubes can be incubated for about 24h at about 44.5°C. This procedure can also be performed using the IDEXX Colisure kit for fecal coliforms and E. coli identification instead of the method mentioned above. As would be recognized by one of skill in the art based on the present disclosure, the sampling methods described above for E. coli and Giardia can also be used on other strains of microorganisms, including, but not limited to, Mycobacterium smegmatis, Micrococcus luteus, Streptococcus pyogenes, Corynebacterium xerosis, Bacillus megaterium, Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Micrococcus roseus, Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Streptococcus faecalis, Aerococcus viridans, Listonella anguillarum, Pasteurella multocida, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Acinetobacter calcoacetis, Enterobacter aerogenes, Klebsiella pneumonia, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus vulgaris, Salmonella typhimurium and Yersinia ruckeri. [0055] Additionally with Giardia, for example, the sample can undergo testing by filtration, immunomagnetic separation (IMS), and immunofluorescence assay (FA). The sample is generally filtered and the captured material suspended. Giardia oocysts and cysts are concentrated by centrifugation and most of the fluid is discarded. The pellet is exposed to paramagnetic beads covered in anti-Giardia antibodies and the remaining fluid is discarded. The oocysts and cysts are removed from the bead complex onto a slide and stained by fluorescently labeled antibodies. Part of this procedure can be performed using the IDEXX Filta-Max system and Dynabeads for Giardia capture and recovery of oocysts and cysts.

2. Metabolic Processes

[0056] Once established in container 120, aquatic plants 110 undergo various metabolic processes, including photosynthesis, respiration, and fermentation. Each of these metabolic processes is discussed further below. In certain embodiments, system 100 can be controlled to cycle repeatedly between photosynthesis, respiration, and fermentation.

[0057] During photosynthesis, the aquatic plants 110 consume carbon dioxide (C0₂) and produce oxygen (0₂) and carbohydrates, specifically glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆), as shown in Reaction (1) below. Photosynthesis generally takes place in the presence of light and oxygen and is an aerobic metabolic process. Photosynthesis is an energy collection and storage process for aquatic plants 110.

6C0₂ + 6H₂0→ 60₂ + C₆Hi₂0₆ (1)

[0058] The aquatic plants 110 may be heterotrophs that are also capable of taking in and converting other carbon-containing materials to glucose. Such carbon-containing materials may be supplied to the aquatic plants 110 via the wastewater inlet 152 and/or the organic or inorganic carbon matter inlet 370 of FIG. 1, for example. The root portions of the aquatic plants 110 may be especially well-suited to take in these other carbon-containing materials, so the wastewater inlet 152 and/or the organic or inorganic carbon matter inlet 370 can direct the materials into third region 200 of container 120 to interact with the root portions of the aquatic plants 110, in particular. Stress hormones and/or regulators of stress hormones (e.g., indole-3 -acetic acid (IAA), abscisic acid (ABA), gibberellin (GA), γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)) can be used to encourage heterotrophic consumption of the carbon-containing materials.

[0059] In the event that a carbon-containing material (e.g., inorganic carbon) cannot be consumed directly by the aquatic plants 110, suitable bacteria and/or fungus can be provided to convert the carbon-containing material into a form suitable for heterotrophic consumption by the aquatic plants 110 (e.g., organic carbon). Exemplary bacteria strains include, but are not limited to, Ralstonia eutropha and Pyrococcus furiosus. Substrate 140 may be inoculated with such bacteria.

[0060] Photosynthesis may be facilitated in system 100 by allowing photosynthesis- inducing light to reach the aquatic plants 110 and/or by providing aerobic (e.g., oxygenated) water 130 to the aquatic plants 110. In FIG. 1, for example, cover 160 may be removed from container 120 to expose the aquatic plants 110 to natural or artificial light, and aerobic water may be directed to at least second region 190 of container 120 from the aerobic water source 260. Additional information regarding methods and systems to facilitate photosynthesis is disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2011/0086400 to Hagen, the disclosure of which is expressly incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0061] During respiration, the aquatic plants 110 consume oxygen (0₂) and the glucose

(C₆Hi₂0₆) from photosynthesis and produce carbon dioxide (C0₂), as shown in Reaction (2) below.

60₂ + C₆Hi₂0₆→ 6C0₂ + 6H₂0 (2)

[0062] Respiration is the opposite of photosynthesis. In nature, photosynthesis generally occurs during daytime hours with the aquatic plants 110 deriving energy from sunlight or another light source, and respiration generally occurs during the nighttime hours with the aquatic plants 110 deriving energy from stored carbohydrates. Depending on the time spent undergoing respiration, the particular type(s) of aquatic plants 110 being used in system 100, and other factors, the aquatic plants 110 can consume about 40%, 50%>, or 60%> of the glucose generated from photosynthesis during respiration over the course of a day. [0063] During fermentation, the aquatic plants 1 10 can metabolize the stored glucose

(C₆Hi₂06) into ethanol (C₂H₅OH), as shown in Reaction (3) below. Depending on the conditions in container 120, such as the pH in container 120, the aquatic plants 1 10 can produce other materials during fermentation, such as lactic acid and/or acetic acid. The aquatic plants 1 10 can also elongate during fermentation to form cellular chambers for storage of additional carbohydrates created during subsequent photosynthesis. Fermentation generally takes place in a dark and anaerobic environment and is an anaerobic metabolic process.

C₆Hi₂0₆→ 2C0₂ + 2C₂H₅OH (3)

[0064] As used herein, an "anaerobic" environment has a level of oxygen depletion that induces the aquatic plants 1 10 to enter or maintain the anaerobic metabolic fermentation process. Thus, an "anaerobic" environment may be sufficient to reduce or maintain a level of intracellular oxygen in the aquatic plants 1 10 to facilitate an anaerobic metabolic fermentation process. It should be understood that the term "anaerobic" does not necessarily indicate a complete absence of oxygen in the water 130, as a very small quantity of oxygen will likely be dissolved in the water 130.

[0065] Fermentation may be facilitated in system 100 by inhibiting photosynthesis- inducing light from reaching the aquatic plants 1 10 and/or by providing anaerobic (e.g., oxygen depleted) water 130 to the aquatic plants 1 10. In FIG. 1 , for example, cover 160 can be applied to container 120 to block or inhibit unwanted photosynthesis-inducing light from reaching the aquatic plants 1 10, and anaerobic water can be directed to second region 190 of container 120 from the anaerobic water source 270. Anaerobic water may also be directed to third region 200 of container 120 from the anaerobic water source 290. In addition to inhibiting photosynthesis- inducing light from entering container 120, cover 160 can also inhibit unwanted oxygen from the surrounding air from entering the water 130 in container 120. Depriving container 120 of light may suppress or prevent photosynthesis. Depriving container 120 of oxygen may suppress or prevent respiration, and such suppression of respiration may be accomplished by purging oxygen from the headspace using nitrogen and/or carbon dioxide gas. [0066] In some embodiments, facilitating fermentation in system 100 can lead to a buildup of carbon-containing compounds such as ethanol and/or lactic acid. Such ethanol and/or lactic acid may be left in container 120, recycled through container 120, and/or removed from container 120 and sold. When left in container 120, such ethanol and/or lactic acid may increase the carbon content of the wastewater to a level that creates conditions inhospitable for microbial growth and/or survival, thereby providing an alternative way for reducing bacteria such as pathogenic bacteria levels in the wastewater.

[0067] In some embodiments, the carbon biomass in a particular container 120 may reach a level where excess carbon needs to be removed. In such a case, water can be discharged and replaced with water having less carbon, or the aquatic plants may be cut and removed from the container 120. The removed aquatic plant matter can then be processed (e.g., fermented, composted, incinerated), and the carbon dioxide produced from such processes may be stored for future use in container 120 or utilized in other containers 120.

[0068] In some embodiments, the carbon content of the treated wastewater from system

100 can be maintained at a level such that, when discharged into the natural environment via the discharge outlet 320, the treated wastewater will not leach carbon from surrounding soil and rock, such as limestone etc.

[0069] While this invention has been described as having exemplary designs, the present invention can be further modified within the spirit and scope of this disclosure. This application is therefore intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the invention using its general principles. Further, this application is intended to cover such departures from the present disclosure as come within known or customary practice in the art to which this invention pertains and which fall within the limits of the appended claims.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A system for removing or sequestering pollutants in wastewater, the system comprising:

at least one container comprising a substrate and at least one aquatic plant having foliage and a root portion anchored in the substrate;

at least one wastewater inlet to the container to deliver wastewater to the container;

at least one discharge outlet from the container to remove treated wastewater from the container; and

at least one circulation system to circulate the wastewater into and out of the container for a specified length of time;

wherein the container contains waste water and wherein presence of the at least one aquatic plant in the at least one container removes or sequesters at least one pollutant from the wastewater.

2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the at least one wastewater inlet delivers wastewater to the container such that the wastewater first contacts the area of the container comprising the root portion of the at least one aquatic plant and the substrate.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one wastewater inlet delivers wastewater to the container such that the wastewater first contacts the area of the container comprising the foliage of the at least one aquatic plant.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the container further comprises a carbon inlet for delivering a carbon source to the at least one aquatic plant.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one aquatic plant comprises a submersed aquatic herb.

6. The system of claim 5, wherein the at least one aquatic plant comprises Potamogeton pectinatus L, also known as Sago pondweed.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one aquatic plant is genetically modified.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein the pollutant in the wastewater comprises pathogenic or non-pathogenic bacteria.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein the pathogenic bacteria comprises at least one of Mycobacterium smegmatis, Micrococcus luteus, Streptococcus pyogenes, Cory neb acterium xerosis, Bacillus megaterium, Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Micrococcus roseus, Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Streptococcus faecalis, Aerococcus viridans, Listonella anguillarum, Pasteurella multocida, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Acinetobacter calcoacetis, Escherichia coli, Enterobacter aerogenes, Klebsiella pneumonia, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus vulgaris, Salmonella typhimurium, Yersinia ruckeri and Giardia.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein the pollutant in the wastewater comprises an undesirable chemical or biological contaminant.

11. The system of claim 10, wherein the undesirable chemical contaminant comprises one or more of a hormone, an antibiotic, a chemotherapeutic agent, an endocrine disruptor compound (EDC), an estrogenic compound, a xenoestrogen, an anti-depressant, an anti-anxiolytic, and a painkiller.

12. The system of claim 1 , wherein the substrate is inoculated with one or more

microorganisms to facilitate one or more metabolic processes in the at least one aquatic plant.

13. A system for removing microbial pollutants from wastewater, the system comprising:

at least one container comprising at least one aquatic plant having foliage and a root portion anchored in a substrate; at least one wastewater inlet to the container to deliver wastewater onto the foliage of the at least one aquatic plant at a location above the substrate; and

at least one discharge outlet from the container to remove treated wastewater from the container, wherein the system contains wastewater.

14. The system of claim 13, wherein the at least one wastewater inlet is a spray inlet.

15. The system of claim 13, wherein the at least one wastewater inlet is located above the at least one aquatic plant.

16. The system of claim 13, wherein the at least one discharge outlet is located below the substrate.

17. A composition comprising human wastewater containing a chemical or biological contaminant and a submersed aquatic herb byproduct.

18. The composition of claim 17, wherein the submersed aquatic herb comprises

Potamogeton pectinatus L, also known as Sago pondweed.

19. A method for removing or sequestering pollutants in wastewater, the method comprising:

introducing wastewater to a system comprising a substrate and at least one aquatic plant having foliage and a root portion anchored in the substrate;

allowing the wastewater to remain in the system for a predetermined time period of minutes to hours to days; and

testing the wastewater for a removal or sequester or inhibition of growth of pollutants in the wastewater.

wherein the container contains waste water and wherein presence of the at least one aquatic plant in the at least one container removes or sequesters at least one pollutant from the wastewater. The method of claim 19, wherein the at least one aquatic plant comprises at least one submersed aquatic herb.