The Role of Water Reuse

A key strategy for improving water efficiency is the reuse of wastewater. During a recent Water and Waste Management Conference in Thailand, I learned from Vikas Brahmavar that the terminology often conflates "wastewater" with "wasted water." While wasted water implies discarding water after use, wastewater possesses significant potential for reuse.

Astoundingly, approximately 80% of wastewater is released untreated. This issue is particularly pressing in water-scarce regions, where reusing wastewater not only contributes to the SDG of clean water but also alleviates water scarcity.

Using Sewage Sludge as a Resource

Another valuable aspect of wastewater is the potential of sewage sludge, the residual material left after purification. Instead of discarding this sludge, which in the EU alone amounted to over 10 million tons in 2015, we can harness it for various beneficial uses. For instance, it can be converted into energy or organic fertilizers rich in essential nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus.

This approach not only mitigates environmental impact but also provides alternatives to expensive commercial fertilizers. Furthermore, the proteins in sewage sludge can be transformed into products for animal feed, medicine, and cosmetics.

Recovering Energy from Wastewater

The third compelling reason to view wastewater as a resource is the energy recovery potential it offers. Remarkably, the energy contained in wastewater exceeds the energy required for its treatment by a factor of twelve. This energy can be harnessed in multiple forms, such as thermal, potential, and chemical energy, leading to applications like biodiesel production and electricity generation through hydropower.

Conclusion: Embracing Wastewater as a Resource

In summary, wastewater is not merely a byproduct but a valuable resource that can help reduce reliance on natural water sources, utilize sewage sludge effectively, and recover energy.

Practical Steps for Water Conservation

To contribute to wastewater reuse and minimize pollution, consider the following actions:

• Collecting water while waiting for the shower to warm up for plants
• Reusing bathwater for toilet flushing
• Running full loads in dishwashers and washing machines
• Turning off taps while brushing teeth or soaping up in the shower
• Taking shorter showers and reducing shower frequency
• Capturing sink water for dishwashing
• Installing water-saving fixtures
• Properly disposing of chemicals and medications

If you have additional ideas on how we can collectively enhance water conservation, please share them in the comments!