What is it?

LeapFrog Design’s Estuary is a plant-powered greywater treatment system. On the outside, a modern planter box adds beauty to the landscape with native and ornamental plants; inside, plants and microbes clean greywater from sinks, showers, and washing machines for reuse in toilet flushing and irrigation.

How does it work?

  First, lightly used greywater from laundry, sinks, baths, and showers is collected for treatment. Then, in the Smart Bench and Treatment Planter, plants and microbes absorb and break down contaminants, cleaning the water for reuse. Finally, cleaned water is ready for non-potable reuse in toilet flushing, irrigation, and other select applications.

Why Plants?

Plants make the system more resilient.

The plants and microbes themselves work together to stabilize the system and recover from toxic chemicals.

Plants clean water better than mechanical or chemical methods.

In a plant-based system, plants and microorganisms absorb and break down contaminants in the water. No need for clog-prone filters, and no chemicals to add or refill.

Plants help people be their best.

Connecting with nature can boost our immune systems, support mental and emotional health, create social connections, and aid physical recovery, as well as reduce anxiety and improve cognitive performance and sleep.