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Geoenvironmental Engineering of Nature-Based Solutions (NbS): From Constructed Wetlands and Biofilters to Resilient Hydrosystems
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About the talk
This lecture explores the geoenvironmental engineering principles underpinning nature-based solutions (NbS) and their role in delivering resilient water and environmental infrastructure. Using examples from constructed wetlands, biofilters, and integrated hydrosystems, the presentation examines how interactions between soil, water, vegetation, and microbial communities drive pollutant removal, wastewater treatment, and ecosystem resilience. The lecture highlights the engineering mechanisms that enable nature-based systems to address contemporary challenges associated with climate change, urbanisation, water pollution, and extreme weather events. Key topics include the design and optimisation of passive wastewater treatment systems, contaminant transport and fate within engineered soils and substrates, and the physical, chemical, and biological processes responsible for pollutant attenuation. Particular emphasis is placed on how NbS can be adapted and engineered to enhance the resilience of water infrastructure under changing climatic conditions. Through practical case studies and research examples, participants will gain insights into design parameters, performance assessment, and long-term operational considerations for sustainable environmental infrastructure.
Key takeaways include: understanding the role of soil-water-plant interactions in water quality improvement; the design principles of constructed wetlands and biofilters; contaminant transport and mitigation mechanisms within engineered media; and strategies for integrating resilient, nature-based technologies into future water management systems. The lecture will demonstrate how geoenvironmental engineering can bridge natural processes and engineered interventions to deliver sustainable, climate-resilient hydrosystems for the future.
About the speaker
Prof. Kiran Tota-MaharajProfessor, Chair and Head of Civil Engineering, The University of Hull, England, UK
Professor Kiran Tota-Maharaj is a Professor of Water, Energy and Environmental Engineering as well as Chair and Head of Civil Engineering at the University of Hull, England, United Kingdom. He specialises in environmental engineering, sustainable water and wastewater nmanagement, nature-based solutions (NbS), and climate-resilient infrastructure. Prof. Tota-Maharaj's research focuses on the development and optimisation of environmental engineering treatment technologies, including constructed wetlands, biofilters, advanced oxidation processes, and sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) for water quality improvement and resource recovery. He has led and contributed to numerous nationally and internationally funded research projects, collaborating with academic, industrial, and governmental partners to address challenges associated with water security, pollution control, and climate adaptation. Prof. Tota-Maharaj's work bridges engineering innovation and environmental sustainability to deliver practical solutions for resilient infrastructure and healthier ecosystems.
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