Duckweed

A the heart of the BTWM system is duckweed or Lemnaceae: a remarkable organism. Under ideal conditions, duckweed can double its biomass every two days. The plant is also highly adaptable, flourishing worldwide under different climatic regimes. Different sub-species exist which favour a range of temperatures, light-conditions, pH and the presence of toxins and heavy metals.

Although resilient, duckweed needs effective management for the best results. This is where BTWM's experience makes all the difference. BTWM has almost two decades of experience in the field and has installed systems in a range of different climatic environments.

BTWM knows how to ensure that duckweed ponds operate as close as possible to their peak efficiency, providing the best outcomes for clients, local communities and the environment.

The Solution to Wastewater Problems

The BTWM wastewater treatment system is a biological process. No chemicals are required to treat wastewater to NSW EPA standards, allowing the water to be employed in irrigation, released into waterways or reused by industry.

The BTWM system has been proven to efficiently extract phosphorus, nitrogen, sodium and other trace minerals from wastewater.

The duckweed cover also acts to control the level of suspended solids and the growth of harmful algae.

A Superior Choice

Benefits of the BTWM system include:

• Environmentally responsible — provides a solution to wastewater problems while capturing carbon and contributing to feed and fuel security.
• Lower capital costs — a BTWM site is considerably cheaper to construct than alternative traditional systems.
• Minimal operating costs — the system is substantially less expensive to run compared with equivalent mechanical or chemical systems.
• Virtually maintenance-free operation.
• No power requirements. The system is ideal for remote areas where power is not available.
• Income generation and community employment possibilities.
• Production of a high-protein animal or fish feed supplement or a feed stock for bio-fuel production.
• Adaptability. The system can be used to clean wastewater generated by extractive industries, food-processing, rural feed-lots, piggeries and a range of other economic activities.