The implementation of constructed wetlands for wastewater treatment in Brazil has started in the eighties, being intensified since the year 2000. The aim of this study is to present the state of art of implementation of horizontal sub-superficial flow constructed wetlands (HFCW) in Brazil, focusing on the identification of design parameters and operational data. Initially a classification for constructed wetlands is given, followed by design parameters and operational conditions for HFCW, highlighting different project criteria, e.g. models from first order kinetics for tubular piston reactors, the relation of superficial area per person, the organic superficial loading and the hydraulic loading, as well as the composition of units and macrophytes utilised.
constructed wetlands; secondary treatment; horizontal flow; operational parameters