Project
De-facto and direct exploitation of alternative water resources: benefits and trade-offs
Background:
This project is affiliated with the Dutch research network NWA Blue route, which aims to foster collaboration between science and society. Its objectives include enhancing engagement across the knowledge chain, uniting relevant consortia partners, and facilitating knowledge utilization.
Description:
The central objective of this project is to assess the benefits and challenges linked to the deliberate use of WWTP-effluent, with a specific emphasis on enhancing freshwater availability and maintaining water quality. To achieve this, the project seeks to address two primary questions:
What is the extent of de-facto water reuse, such as in irrigation, groundwater replenishment, and drinking water production, and how does it contribute to the widespread distribution of wastewater and its associated contaminants?
How will future patterns of water flow and contaminant distribution be influenced by:
- Climate change,
- Advancements in wastewater treatment, and
- Intentional direct reuse?