Water Reclamation & Reuse (031-DP-7)
Discussion Paper Summary
The CRD is well poised to reclaim water from wastewater for reuse in a variety of settings, thus reducing overall water consumption and conserving our region’s resource.
Reclaimed water could be reused in irrigation, including parks, school yards, crops, nurseries, golf courses, cemeteries and greenbelts; for industrial purposes; for groundwater or watershed recharging and for non-potable urban functions such as toilet flushing or air conditioning. Potable reuse is very uncommon and not a likely possibility for the CRD.
Water Reuse Technology
Membrane technology and ultraviolet disinfection are the current technologies of choice for water reclamation facilities. Both of these technologies are flexible, allowing the CRD to develop further reuse opportunities as they arise. Membrane and ultraviolet technologies have a proven ability to remove contaminants and pathogens. As these technologies develop, the CRD should see regulatory requirements change to embrace their innovations.
Membrane and ultraviolet water reuse technologies are in use in many wastewater facilities around the world, including the new Dockside Green development in Victoria West.
Water Reuse Potential
Reused water from wastewater in the CRD would likely be used for landscape irrigation and toilet flushing, two of the biggest draws on the Regional water supply. Reuse of water for these needs could be applied to new or redeveloped areas. A dual water distribution system would be needed to supply both potable and non-potable water to communities.
Reclaimed wastewater effluent could currently provide irrigation water for approximately 116,000 residential lots, 196,000 lots by the year 2065. Any excess water would be discharged by outfall to the ocean. The potential to use reclaimed water for toilet flushing is not as high. Toilet flushing accounts for only 13% of current residential water use and thus only 13% of reclaimed water could be used in this setting.
Irrigation would likely prove to have the greatest role in regional water reuse. With appropriate planning and incorporation of new developments the CRD could very successfully integrate water reuse and reclamation into wastewater treatment.
© Image courtesy of Evan Leeson