Passive sampling of pathogens for the assessment of stormwater, treatment and harvesting systems

This thesis investigates the application of passive samplers in monitoring microbes in stormwater constructed wetlands. Stormwater is a valuable water resource, but health risks from microbial contamination limit its safe use. Traditional sampling is costly and often unreliable. This research demonstrates that passive samplers are a low-cost, easy-to-deploy, and effective method for detecting key microbes, including bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. Under certain conditions, they can also provide reliable estimates of concentration. The findings support safer stormwater harvesting and offer a practical tool for risk management and water recycling.