Exploring the Efficacy of Slow Sand Filtration for Sustainable Water Purification

Slow sand filtration (SSF) demonstrates adaptability and resilience when applied to variable river water sources, making it a promising potential solution for sustainable water purification. This study investigates SSF’s ability to remove E. coli, nitrates (NO₃), and phosphates (PO₄) over 12 weeks, with a focus on its performance under fluctuating water quality conditions. Results reveal progressive improvements in contaminant removal. Notably, SSF maintained consistent performance across varying river samples, showcasing its robustness against changes in turbidity, nutrient concentrations, and organic loads. SSF not only improves microbial water quality but also mitigates nutrient pollution, reducing risks of eutrophication in downstream ecosystems.