The objective of this study was to design a university-level course focused on Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) for water pollution control. The work unfolded in three phases: the initial planning, course delivery, and assessment of learning outcomes. In the planning phase, a set of competencies was outlined using the Developing a Curriculum Method (DACUM), resulting in defined learning outcomes and a structured course outline. Subsequently, the course was conducted over a two-week period, employing a hybrid format including both online and in-person sessions. The assessments of the learning outcomes included one test, an assignment, a satisfaction survey, and the post-course feedback. As a result of the planning phase, four competencies, seven learning outcomes and four course units were defined. The participant cohort encompassed a diverse group of 50 individuals, including undergraduate and postgraduate students, professionals working in industry and institutions, and professors. The assessment of the learning outcomes showed good results. However, issues regarding the mathematical calculations and field-trip experience were noted, suggesting areas for course enhancement. The participants expressed high satisfaction levels across the various course components. Notably, 70% of the participants indicated the application of the acquired knowledge in their professional endeavors. These findings underscore the successful implementation of the course, establishing it as a pioneering university-level program in NBS for water pollution control.

El objetivo de universalizar el servicio de saneamiento impulsa a la búsqueda de soluciones eficientes y sostenibles en su operación, especialmente en Plantas de Tratamiento de aguas residuales (PTAR) de pequeño tamaño, donde el costo operativo es un factor decisivo. En este contexto, este estudio analizó el potencial de un tipo de humedales llamado "sistema francés", el cual utiliza dos etapas para el tratamiento primario y secundario de aguas residuales. Basándose en experiencias operativas de dos PTAR que utilizan esta tecnología desde hace 12 y 8 años, se establecieron requisitos que permiten el uso de la primera etapa como único tratamiento, logrando una eliminación superior al 85% de la Demanda Bioquímica de Oxígeno (DBO), con un valor límite de 60 mg/l. En cuanto a la segunda etapa, se compararon las eficiencias de humedales de flujo vertical y horizontal. Ambos demostraron efectividad en la eliminación de la DBO, alcanzando concentraciones finales de DBO inferiores a 8 mg/l en el efluente tratado, cumpliendo con los requisitos para la reutilización del efluente. Estas experiencias a largo plazo evidencian el inmenso potencial de los humedales y sus variaciones tecnológicas para contribuir de manera económica y sostenible a las demandas de saneamiento básico en Perú

The objective of the study was to evaluate the agronomic potential of WWTP and DT sludge produced in Peru. For this, different aerobic and anaerobic wastewater treatment technologies were selected, as well as on-site sanitation systems in the cities of Lima, Ayacucho, Arequipa and Cusco. The aerobic technologies evaluated were: conventional aeration activated sludge, extended aeration, ICEAS and aerated lagoon. Regarding the anaerobic technologies, the following were selected: anaerobic lagoon, anaerobic digester and Imhoff tank. The on-site sanitation systems chosen were those with weekly, monthly and annual storage chambers. The sampled sludge was characterized physicochemically and microbiologically according to DS-N°015-2017-VIVIENDA, which determines whether a sludge can be reused and classified as type A or B biosolids. Type A biosolids are applicable to the soil without sanitary restrictions. while those of type B have restrictions depending on the location of the soil and/or type of crop. The concentrations of C, N, P and K in the sludge were analyzed to evaluate their possible agronomic reuse. It was found that extended aeration sludge, aerated lagoon, anaerobic lagoon, anaerobic digester and Imhoff tank have characteristics similar to those of type B biosolids and have adequate agronomic potential due to their content of organic matter and nutrients. On the other hand, conventional aeration sludge, ICEAS and BES require stabilization processes to be reused.