Can aquatic plants serve as natural filters for wastewater? This study evaluates the accumulation of heavy metals by *Pharagmites australis* and *Schoenoplectus lacustris* in constructed wetlands treating municipal wastewater in Berlin, Germany. It examines the translocation of Zn, Cr, Cu, Fe, Cd, Ni, and Pb within the plant roots, stems, and leaves, as well as their levels in wastewater and sludge. The results indicate that *P. australis* exhibits a higher tendency for metal accumulation than *S. lacustris*, with metal levels concentrated in roots, followed by leaves, then stems. Additionally, metals were more concentrated in the sludge than in the plants. Plants grown in artificial wetlands showed higher metal levels compared to those in controlled areas. The conclusion is that vascular plants can effectively act as scavengers of metals from municipal wastewater while maintaining a healthy status. This highlights the potential of constructed wetlands for wastewater treatment and environmental remediation, offering a sustainable approach to water purification.
Given that Environmental Management and Health covers a range of topics related to environmental sustainability and public health, this article is appropriate. The study’s focus on using vascular plants to accumulate heavy metals from municipal wastewater directly aligns with the journal's aim of promoting environmentally sound practices that benefit human health.