Green Infrastructure

Schematic diagram of an Integrated Constructed Wetland

Courtesy DHPLG ©

Schematic diagram of an Integrated Constructed Wetland
Courtesy DHPLG ©

Schematic diagram of an Integrated Constructed Wetland

Courtesy DHPLG ©

Enlarge image

Example of a typical ICW system

Courtesy DHPLG ©

Example of a typical ICW system
Courtesy DHPLG ©

Example of a typical ICW system

Courtesy DHPLG ©

Enlarge image

The ‘Integrated Constructed Wetlands’ concept and the associated ‘(ICWs) Initiative’ of the Irish National Parks and Wildlife Service is a joined approach to land and water management. It is a sustainable wastewater treatment system that is designed to mimic and function as a natural wetland. It involves a holistic approach to water management that restores emergent-vegetated wetlands and their environmental services. Typical Integrated Constructed Wetlands involve a series of shallow, interconnected, emergent-vegetated, surface-flow wetland compartments that receive/intercept water flows from a variety of sources (DHPLG, 2010). The ICW concept has also been recognized for the delivery of other benefits through ecosystem services such as  has the potential to sequester carbon.

The concepts main objectives include:

• The containment and treatment of influents within emergent vegetated areas using wherever possible local soil material.

• The aesthetic placement of the containing wetland structure into the local landscape towards enhancing a site’s ancillary values and, 

• Enhanced habitat diversity and nature management

For further information on the Integrated Constructed Wetlands concept please visit the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government guideline document here.