Abstract ID: 3.13951 | Accepted as Talk | Talk/Oral | TBA | TBA

Climate change-accelerated glacial retreat and weathering of rocks with metallic sulphides generate acid rock drainage (ARD), characterised by high concentrations of H⁺, SO₄²-, Fe and other heavy metals. This natural geochemical process is a critical environmental problem in the Peruvian Andes, where ARD impacts water quality and hydrological connectivity from mountain ecosystems to downstream river systems. The community of Canrey Chico, in the Ancash region, is a unique case where ARD directly affects the local population, causing environmental and socio-economic risks due to the use of river water for agricultural and livestock activities. In response to this problem, and under a participatory approach, a Bioremediation Pilot Plant was implemented for research purposes. This plant includes constructed wetlands (CW) with different configurations, both full-scale and prototypes. The objectives of this study were: (1) design and implement CW systems, (2) monitor effluent quality for potential agricultural and livestock reuse, and (3) assess the potential for replicability of these solutions in other areas affected by ARD. The implemented CW are unique systems in terms of the water they treat. They have been designed and implemented with the participation of local people, who have traditional knowledge and an interest in improving water quality. In addition, research is being carried out to optimise these systems. As a result, a significant reduction in the concentration of SO₄²- (27±12%) and heavy metals (Fe: 88±5%, Al: 96±2%, Co: 98±1%, Cd: 79±22%, Zn: 96±2%, Cu: 90±10%, Ni: 98±1%, Be: 71±18%), as well as an increase in pH to 6.37±0.15, which allows the potential reuse of water as established by national legislation. These systems can be optimised and replicated in hydrographic units affected by ARD in the Andes and in other regions of the world with similar problems, depending on the type of water use and the needs of the population.