Optimizing plant biomass from nature-based solutions for bioenergy production within the Water-Energy-Food Nexus

Constructed wetlands play a crucial role in water treatment through phytoremediation while offering opportunities for sustainable biomass production. This study explores the optimization of plant biomass from nature-based solutions (NBS) in CWs for bioenergy generation within the Water-Energy-Food (WEF) Nexus. Various plant species with phytoremediation capacity are evaluated as feedstock for biogas production. The research investigates the effects of species selection, storage conditions, and maturation periods at three different times of the year to assess variations in methane production potential. Anaerobic digestion is examined through BMP tests to evaluate methane yield and energy efficiency. The findings contribute to advancing integrated approaches that align environmental restoration with renewable energy production, reinforcing circular economy principles in wastewater management.