What are the Barriers to Water Reuse?
This is a question that has been discussed in a variety of venues this week at both SIWW and LET. As we look at the water scarcity challenges around the globe, we know a holistic water review is required to examine conservation, non-potable reuse, indirect potable reuse, impaired waters (brackish or contaminated waters), desalination, and water sharing between adjacent communities. When we look at the water supply alternatives, water reuse is a universal solution that is not limited by climate, geographical location, or water supply situation. It would seem to be the perfect solution!! And for many applications it is widely accepted. However, for the high end reuse options, i.e. indirect potable reuse and direct potable reuse, we have the technology, but we don’t always have the stomach for it – literally. Our biggest challenge right now may not be the technology but rather public acceptance. So as we discuss the new frontiers for reuse – we may be our own worst enemy. We have spent millions of dollars on research to improve the technology and very little on public and political education as illustrated by the push back on IPR in Brisbane now that the water crisis is not as intensive and in many places within the US. Conversely, in Singapore there has been tremendous effort with respect to public education regarding water and its value which is validated by their successful New Water program. As we go forward and refine the technologies, we need to remember the psychological elements and spend time and effort on public education to elevate reuse as an accepted concept for all applications.
Posted by Cindy Wallis-Lage
Shekar Venkataraman
Interestingly enough, on my way back home on the reception night, a cab driver was asking about NEWater facility and when I explained to him that it has gone through the highest level of treatment and we could drink it directly, he said that mind set of people would not allow that.
He did mention (Which I thought was a good point) that education about water reuse should start at primary school level where kids growing up will be able to understand the importance of water and will embrace the concept. I know I did not have any education about water treatment (let alone water reuse) in my school days….
We have proven that advanced treatment of wastewater produces quality that exceeds many DW standards and after all NASA has also demonstrated that water recycling has reached “new heights”..
Jessica Lamb
I got to sit in on the media conference, and public reaction on water reuse in Australia was addressed.
I thought Dan McCarthy had a good point. He said engineering comes up with the solution of reuse in times of stress. The public then has to be sold on the idea after the fact. He recommended having an open discussion beforehand and reaching a consensus with the community.
Ralph Eberts commented that “reuse” is an unfortunate term, and another name should be considered – I think we’re seeing that right here in Singapore with NEWater.
Shekar Venkataraman
I can think of another word for reuse water. “G-water” with G standing for “green”. This signifies the fact that there is a drive to create sustainable solutions..
BTW- if this is not registered or trademarked, I need all the rolyalties…
Gerry O'Toole
Cindy, there are multiple barriers to reuse…(ho ho ho!).
One thing which may be of interest is the influence of religious belief. Muslims for example, may have a bit more problem accepting water reuse than followers of other religions. I know this was a consideration in the development of the community education programme for NEWater in Singapore, which as you know has three significant races, Chinese, Malay and Indian. It was handled very sensitively and is now widely accepted. However, it will be interested to see how this aspect is dealt with in the Middle East for example.