Subsurface Flow Wetland as Biofilters for Wastewater in Colombia

This paper is a review about studies of horizontal and vertical subsurface flow wetlands, and their application in Colombia. According to variables like physicochemical parameters, water quality, water conservation and the importance of water for life, Subsurface Flow Wetlands (SFW) are a cheap and viable alternative because of their low operational requirements and their efficient results for water decontamination when water has been affected by wastewater from urban centers. SFW do not only perform hydric recovery techniques, but also improve natural ecosystems related to bodies of water. These natural systems or biofilters can absorb some heavy metals, contaminants and bacteria that have been discharged into the water by different human activities. The development of these technologies in Colombia presents itself as an accurate alternative to improve the parameters of final disposal of sewage.