With the rapid industrialization and modernization today, the quality of water and air is increasingly seriously polluted. Besides, urbanization has significantly reduced green space in urban areas.
In order to reduce pressure on environmental quality management in big cities, the research team of Dr. Vo Thi Dieu Hien (Nguyen Tat Thanh University) and Assoc. Prof. Bui Xuan Thanh (Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology) have pioneered the development of wetland roof technology since 2009. Wetland roof technology is a unique combination of conventional constructed wetland technology and green roof. This innovative technology not only solves the problem of domestic wastewater treatment but also enhances green space, saves energy in air conditioning, stores rain water to limit urban flooding. In addition, the quality of treated wastewater not only meets domestic wastewater discharge standards (QCVN 14:2008/BTNMT) but also meets US water reuse standards for agricultural irrigation purposes, street washing and groundwater recharge. This research direction has been funded by the National Foundation for Science and Technology Development (NAFOSTED), Korea Environment Corporation (KECO) – Ministry of Environment of Korea and so far there have been 6 ISI articles published in prestigious journals such as Bioresource Technology, International Biodegradation and Biodeterioration and granted a US Patent (US Patent – US9884780B2) in 2018.
This research result has provided a promising green solution for urban environmental management in developing countries in general and Vietnam in particular. In addition, this study also serves as a useful foundation for further innovative researches by students majoring in the environment in general and in Environmental and Resources Management at Nguyen Tat Thanh University in particular.