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Application of Cyperus involucratus Rottb (Umbrella plant) Combined with GLOBE Hydrosphere Water Quality Measurements for the Restoration of Water in Concrete Canal, San Pa Liang Community, Mueang, Chiang Mai
Organization(s):Varee Chiangmai school
Country:Thailand
Student(s):Miss Napawadee Phokajirakun
Miss Arissara Songsawatwong
Miss Paparwarin Wangdee
Miss Yada Kuchkean
Mr. Paramet Chaiyod
Grade Level:Upper Primary (grades 3-5, ages 8-11)
GLOBE Member(s):Kuntalee Panin
Contributors:Miss Rattanaporn Waenphet
Miss Kuntalee Panin
Mr. Kantapat Thapinta
Mr. Suppasit Kiatpattananon
Mr. Nutchworapol Vongsoontorn
Report Type(s):Virtual Science Symposium Report
Protocols:pH, Water Temperature, Water Transparency
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Language(s):English
Date Submitted:2026-01-28
The objective of this research was to study the water quality in the concrete canal, San Pa Liang Community, Mueang District, Chiang Mai Province, and to assess the efficiency of the Umbrella Plant (Cyperus involucratus Rottb) in restoring wastewater. This was done using measurements according to the GLOBE Hydrosphere Protocol alongside laboratory experiments. Field water sampling was conducted at 3 locations: Upstream, Midstream, and Downstream, once a week for 4 weeks. Water quality variables measured included temperature, turbidity, pH, DO value, phosphate, nitrite, alkalinity, and electrical conductivity.
The survey results found that water quality deteriorated as it flowed through the community area. Turbidity, phosphate, nitrite, and electrical conductivity values increased clearly in the midstream and downstream areas, reflecting contamination from household wastewater and community activities. Although the pH value was at a neutral level, other variables indicated a state of water pollution.
In the experiment of wastewater treatment using the Umbrella Plant, designed as a control group and an experimental group over a period of 15 days, it was found that the plant could effectively reduce turbidity and absorb phosphate and nitrite, making the water clearer and increasing the DO value. This was due to the function of the root system and microorganisms that help decompose waste. Additionally, electrical conductivity decreased slightly, indicating a reduction in the amount of ions in the water.
The comparison results before and after treatment indicate that the Umbrella Plant has high potential for restoring water quality in community canals, especially in reducing turbidity and excess nutrients, which are key factors in water pollution problems. This study helps create knowledge regarding the use of local aquatic plants to treat wastewater in an economical and environmentally friendly manner, while also promoting scientific skills, thinking processes, and STEAM integration for students. The results can be applied in the community for sustainable water management development.