Water and wastewater reuse : an environmentally sound approach for sustainable urban water management

This booklet was prepared to introduce the basic concepts of water and wastewater reuse, and applications of Environmentally Sound Technologies (ESTs) for enabling reuse. It addresses the following questions, illustrated with case studies from both developed and developing countries: What are the benefits of implementing water and wastewater reuse initiatives?; and Which cases and approaches of wastewater reuse result in efficient and successful management of resources? The booklet aims to illustrate that sustainable water management is relevant for regions with abundant water resources as well as for those with limited water resources. It deals with capacity building policy-making, institutional strengthening, financial mechanisms, and awareness raising and stakeholder participation. The important aspects to minimize public health risks are identified. The possibilities of wastewater reuse in agriculture, industry, urban uses, and environmental water enhancement including groundwater recharge are discussed with the help of practical examples.