Activated carbon filters can be combined with biological elements in order to increase their service life. In this way, the strengths of both systems complement each other: the activated carbon acts as a buffer and functions at low temperatures and during periods of dryness, the microorganisms present in the biofilter break down the contaminants bonded to the activated carbon.

There are many options available when combining activated carbon and biofilters, for example activated carbon mats can be placed under a layer of humus to aid water purification; or in the case of noxious odours from waste water systems, the activated carbon cab be mixed directly with bark mulch.