Floating Wetlands in Nepal: A Sustainable Solution to Water Pollution

Authors

  • Bipin Silwal Environmental Engineering Program, Department of Civil Engineering, Pulchowk Campus, Institute of Engineering, Tribhuvan University (ROR: https://ror.org/02rg1r889), Lalitpur, Nepal
  • Ujjwal Koirala Environmental Engineering Program, Department of Civil Engineering, Pulchowk Campus, Institute of Engineering, Tribhuvan University (ROR: https://ror.org/02rg1r889), Lalitpur, Nepal
  • Nadia Machkour DELTA LAB (Digital Engineering for Leading Technology and Automation), Hassan II University of Casablanca (https://ror.org/001q4kn48), Morocco
  • Shukra Raj Paudel Environmental Engineering Program, Department of Civil Engineering, Pulchowk Campus, Institute of Engineering, Tribhuvan University (ROR: https://ror.org/02rg1r889), Lalitpur, Nepal

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.63095/NBSEH.25.777889

Keywords:

Floating Wetland, Pollution, Sustainable Development Goals

Abstract

Water plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy and balanced ecosystem. Yet water bodies are rapidly deteriorating across the globe, and Nepal is not immune to this growing concern. This viewpoint article highlights the urgent need for sustainable solutions to address this issue. Among various technologies, floating wetlands have emerged as a widely accepted and promising option. In the context of Nepal, this approach could be particularly effective by using native plants capable of absorbing organic pollutants, nutrients, and heavy metals from polluted water, along with promoting biodegradation through biofilms on their root systems. We emphasise the importance of formulating actionable policy and ensuring effective implementation of floating wetlands in water bodies — an effort that can significantly contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs 3, 6, and 13).

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References

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Floating wetlands as a nature-based solution can improve water quality in Nepal. Native plants on rafts absorb nutrients and heavy metals, while microbes on their roots break down pollutants. Polluted water passes through successive rafts, generating cleaner water. These systems can restore ecosystems, build climate resilience, and support Sustainable Development Goals; 3 (Good Health and Well-being), 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), and 13 (Climate Action). Adoption in Nepal’s lakes and rivers can boost biodiversity, protect livelihoods, and promote community-led water management

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Published

2025-08-19

How to Cite

Silwal, B., Koirala, U., Machkour, N., & Paudel, S. R. (2025). Floating Wetlands in Nepal: A Sustainable Solution to Water Pollution. Natural Built Social Environment Health, 1(5), 200–207. https://doi.org/10.63095/NBSEH.25.777889

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