DSPCA’S Integrated Constructed Wetland (ICW)

As part of the DSPCA’s commitment to work towards a sustainable and environmentally friendly animal shelter, in 2018 we created and built an Integrated Constructed Weltllands (ICW). This area treats all rain runoff and waste water that is generated from the DSPCA’s day to day activities. It is a low operational, cost effective and zero-energy treatment system. ICW’s are man-made marsh wetlands inspired by natural weltlands, including swamps, bogs, marshes and ferns.

The DSPCA wetlands extends over 4.5 acres and also provides a range of habitats for the local ecology, providing shelter and feeding grounds for a range of species and wildlife. Bacteria and microorganisms living in the water, soil and on the planting break down and remove pollutants from the waste water.

The plants also help by using the nutrients, slowing the flow of water which makes the particles drop to the floor of the Wetlands allowing them to be broken down and absorbed back in the Ecosystem. The Wetlands have flourished during lockdown with the rain and sun and there are many new animal visitors to it including frogs, moor hens, mallard ducks, dragonfly and a huge assortment of bees, butterflies and other native wildlife.