Dehradun, Feb. 13 -- A research study by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee has highlighted innovative, sustainable approaches to wastewater treatment, water reuse and resource recovery, demonstrating how academic research can contribute to addressing challenges of water security, climate resilience and sustainable resource management in India and globally, said a statement issued by the institute on Thursday. The study focuses on the use of microalgal photogranules (MPGs) for wastewater treatment and resource recovery, presenting an integrated model that combines energy-efficient treatment processes with circular bioeconomy principles. Researchers say the approach offers a nature-based, low-energy and eco-friendly solution that aligns with India's priorities of nutrient pollution control, water reuse and sustainable infrastructure development. Microalgal photogranules are dense, spherical aggregates of microalgae and bacteria that function through natural symbiosis. They enable efficient removal of nutrients, carbon and heavy metals from wastewater, while simultaneously generating biomass. This biomass can then be harvested for high-value products, supporting a circular economy model in environmental management. The research was led by Prof Sanjeev Kumar Prajapati, principal investigator from the Environment and Biofuel Research Laboratory (EBRL), Department of Hydro and Renewable Energy, IIT Roorkee, with contributions from a multidisciplinary research team including Harshit Tiwari. Commenting on the broader significance of the study, Prof KK Pant, Director of IIT Roorkee, said: "Advancements in sustainable water technologies are essential for long-term environmental and economic resilience."...