How Wastewater Reuse & Recycling Is a Win for Everyone

Feb 1, 2021
Water Recycling

In today’s rapidly changing world, it is more important than ever to implement sustainable methods of reducing water scarcity—and recycling wastewater is an excellent option. Wastewater recycling systems make it possible to filter and continue using water that would otherwise be contaminated and dumped into the local environment. From the U.S. to Australia, countries around the world are reaping the benefits of this critical technology to improve the health of their communities.

What Is Wastewater Recycle & Reuse?

Water reclamation systems provide a way to clean wastewater and sewage, thus creating more environmentally sustainable water usage. While the filtration process differs depending on location and desired outcome, wastewater recycling typically consists of the following steps.

First, effluent undergoes treatment at a wastewater treatment plant, where it is recycled through an intensive filtration process. The water will ultimately pass through a film, which captures molecules, viruses, and bacteria. It may also be exposed to ultraviolet light and hydrogen peroxide to oxidize and disinfect it. 

From here, the water may either go to a groundwater aquifer or a reservoir. This extra step dilutes the recycled water, often helping consumers feel more comfortable with the mixing of recycled water into the water system.

Finally, if the goal is to create potable water, this blend of recycled and non-recycled water will go through a drinking water treatment plant before reaching the public.

Why Is Wastewater Recycle & Reuse Important?

Wastewater recycling and reuse has a vast number of benefits for the environment, corporations, and individuals. The following are just a few of the major benefits globally for taking part in wastewater recycle and reuse:

  • Improved health and safety
  • Reduced water scarcity
  • Lower industrial costs
  • Meeting industry standards and regulations
  • Lowered strain on the environment

Wastewater recycling enables more sustainable water usage and is an important step in combating climate change. The reduction of water wastage is particularly relevant to industrial manufacturers, who make up approximately 20% of global water consumption. Wastewater recycling systems make it possible for manufacturers to drastically reduce their water consumption, saving money and reducing the strain on local resources. 

Higher levels of clean water are also a vital component in the health of global communities, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Access to clean water for drinking and hand washing improves people’s well-being and slows the spread of viruses and bacteria.

Wastewater Recycling & Reuse Applications

Many countries around the world are using this vital technology to their advantage. For example, some areas of Australia are now utilizing recycled water for drinking. In the UK, London indirectly uses recycled wastewater from the Thames. Windhoek, Namibia has been reusing recycled wastewater since 1968. Waste water recycling systems also reduce the strain on resources by making more potable water available in countries with a growing water demand, such as India. Additional countries utilizing recycled water include Belgium and Singapore.

The use of wastewater recycling is not limited to overseas applications, however. Miami, Florida is just one example of an area in the U.S. that chooses to recycle millions of gallons of wastewater rather than dumping it in the ocean. Other states that utilize recycled water include California, Arizona, and Northern Virginia.

There are also a number of industries that can benefit from recycling and reusing wastewater, rather than simply dumping it. For example, wastewater recycling in the nuclear power industry makes it possible to filter harmful solids out of the wastewater to reuse it within the facility. Industries that utilize particularly high volumes of water, such as the textile industry, can be more eco-friendly and save money by utilizing recycled water instead of pulling from local resources.

Wastewater Recovery Systems From MacDermid Envio Solutions (MES)

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Since 1971, MES has been working with clients around the world to treat their industrial wastewater, save money while helping the environment, and meet local regulations. We are industry leaders in the design and development of industrial wastewater treatment solutions. To learn more about how we can help you implement a wastewater recycling system, contact us today.