Comparative evaluation of domestic wastewater treatment methods in rural areas of Peru
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37711/repiama.2025.2.2.5Keywords:
SaneamientoAbstract
In rural areas of Peru, the treatment of domestic wastewater represents a persistent challenge due to limited sanitation coverage and technical and economic constraints, which contributes to the contamination of water bodies, affects public health, and hinders the sustainable development of rural communities. The purpose of the present research was to compare the efficiency of three alternative wastewater treatment methods applicable in rural contexts. A descriptive and partially explanatory approach was applied through documentary analysis of four scientific studies, three theses, and one article, published between 2015 and 2024, according to their relevance and applicability in Peruvian rural communities, evaluating bio digesters, septic tanks with baffles, and constructed wetlands. The efficiency, costs, and ease of installation of these three methods were evaluated. The results evidenced that constructed wetlands exhibited the highest efficiency in the removal of thermotolerant coliforms (99.99%) and BOD5 (83.89%), with a low cost per household (S/ 48.54) and simple installation. Bio digesters also showed high efficiency (97.48% in coliforms), although with a significantly higher cost (S/ 4384.51 per household) and moderate complexity in installation. Septic tanks with baffles had limited efficiency, an intermediate cost (S/ 417.56 per household), and greater constructive complexity. It was concluded that constructed wetlands are positioned as the most efficient, economical, and viable option for rural areas; whereas bio digesters can be implemented in communities with greater resources, and septic tanks require optimizations to reach adequate treatment standards.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Angela Isabel Aliaga Fernandez, Jhomel Albornoz Jaimes, Bany Gladimer Caico Meza, Yajaira Encarnación Tucto (Autor/a)

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