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Wastewater Reuse in the Near East Region: Experience and Issues

Regional Symposium on Water Recycling in the Mediterranean Region

Year of publication 2002

Product type Book (stand-alone)

Edition 1

Synopsis (short abstract) Wastewater in most countries of the Near East Region (NER) is being more and more recognized as of vital importance to be treated and made safe for reuse. It contributes considerably to the water budget in several countries, particularly those suffering from water scarcity. Treated wastewater is used directly in irrigation of farms or landscape green areas. Limited indirect use includes recharge of groundwater aquifers to control over-draft and salt intrusion in coastal areas. A large share of w astewater is still not treated and part of it is used in an uncontrolled manner, including for the production of uncooked food crops the consumption of which poses health risks. Expansion of treated wastewater reuse in the region is linked to a number of issues and constraints. The high cost of treatment and management of reclaimed wastewater is one of the major limitations facing the week economy of most countries. Unclear polices, institutional conflicts and lack of regulatory frameworks con stitute other important constraints that hinder implementation and proper operation of wastewater reuse projects. The manpower capacity is at varying levels between countries, but additional training and capacity strengthening are generally needed throughout the region. This paper gives an overview of the existing practices of wastewater reuse in the NER and of the constraints facing it. It concludes with recommendations and policy options that are likely to lift these constraints and to make a better use of the wastewater potential.

Language English

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    Water scarcity is one of the major challenges in the 19 countries of the Near East and North Africa (NENA) region. The lack of water is affecting important irrigated areas, limiting the increase of food production needed to address the growing demand due to population growth. In most countries of the NENA region, the need to use non-conventional water resources, including brackish water, is well recognized. Brackish water is loosely defined as water that is more saline than freshwater, but less saline than seawater. It covers a large range of salinity levels, from 500 to 30 000 mg/l of total dissolved solids (TDS). Despite the presence of large amounts of brackish water and its potential for use in growing a number of crops, it is only used in limited amounts for irrigation. The successful use of brackish water for irrigation requires a basic understanding of scientific principles affecting the interactions among the climate, the applied water, the soil, the crop, and the environment. Equally important is the application of suitable technology and management practices that will facilitate the optional use of this poor-quality water. The successful use of brackish water requires a higher level of management and likely the adoption of new irrigation management practices. Because climate, water quality, soil type, and crop tolerance to salinity vary from location to location, guidelines, with some degree of site-specific flexibility, must be developed.
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