Strengthening the implementation of water reuse in South Africa

Abstract

Pressures from climate change and the rising demand for freshwater water resources by different users, population growth, and rapid urbanisation and poor water quality have put a lot of pressure on freshwater supplies. Consequently, there has been more and frequent consideration of using alternative water sources. Amongst these, water reclamation and reuse has been promoted as a strategic option with a potential in assisting countries to meet their development goals. With South Africa also recognised as a water stressed country, the need for wastewater reclamation and reuse has become urgent. Evidence from planned and existing cases show that the pace of implementation within the water services sector has been slowed by a combination of socio-political, technical and economic factors. However, water supply authorities are increasingly becoming aware that water reuse is not only an emergency supply option anymore, but must be considered as part of a long-term water supply mix strategy in water resources planning.

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