In a promising development that could redefine India’s wastewater treatment landscape, researchers at Nagaland University have engineered an eco-friendly, nature-inspired technology that transforms sewage into biofuel, nutrients, and clean water.
The Innovation: Bio-Based “Soft Technologies”
Spearheaded by Professor Prabhakar Sharma, Head of the Department of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, the project revolves around “bio-based soft technologies” — systems modeled on natural processes involving plants, algae, and microbes.
These systems offer a low-cost, energy-efficient alternative to traditional wastewater treatment methods and are particularly suited for rural and peri-urban settings where centralized infrastructure is often lacking.
Lab Success, Field Next
The research, published in the peer-reviewed journal Current Opinion in Environmental Science and Health, emphasizes the integration of:
- Algae-based systems
- Microbial fuel cells
- Constructed wetlands
These methods not only clean wastewater but also recover valuable by-products like biogas, nutrients, and biofuels, aligning closely with India’s circular economy and climate resilience goals.
“Wastewater is often treated as a liability,” said Professor Jagadish K. Patnaik, Vice Chancellor of Nagaland University. “This innovation flips the script—it’s about seeing opportunity where others see waste.”
What’s Next: Scaling to Real-World Impact
The team now plans to move beyond the lab, aiming to launch pilot-scale decentralized treatment units in collaboration with local communities and industry partners. The focus will be on:
- Cost optimization
- Real-world durability
- Microplastic filtration
- Pollutant removal at source
“We’ve done the science. Now it’s about implementation,” said Prof. Sharma. “This technology can power clean water access, reduce pollution, and support sustainable agriculture across India.”
Why It Matters
- Tackles urban and rural wastewater challenges
- Reduces reliance on energy-intensive treatment plants
- Supports climate goals and water reuse strategies
- Boosts nutrient recycling and biofuel production
With this innovation, Nagaland University positions itself at the forefront of India’s sustainable development movement—offering a scalable, inclusive, and future-ready solution to one of the country’s most pressing environmental challenges.
