Water reuse, a strategic response to water stress?

The effects of climate change, which are particularly noticeable in countries around the Mediterranean and in the Middle East, are exacerbating water stress in these regions. Faced with increasing water demand and competing uses, the reuse of treated wastewater appears to be a promising strategy. Directed towards non-domestic uses, such as agriculture or industry, this “unconventional” water helps reduce the pressure on natural resources. Despite its proven benefits, it remains under-exploited, mainly due to numerous obstacles, including financial, technical and socio-cultural challenges, that need to be addressed. What's more, mobilizing it on a large scale requires an integrated approach, based on collective will and the effective implementation of a comprehensive public policy.

• This QDD is also available in Arabic