Re-use and recycling
Water recycling involves the processing and re-use of wastewater from cities and towns.
Most towns and cities already use recycled water for purposes such as for watering parks, ovals, industrial use and irrigation. Some regions in Australia are now considering taking the next step by deliberately using recycled water to supplement drinking water supplies under carefully controlled conditions.
More information:
- Recycled water - fact sheet (National Water Commission)
Government programs
In order to provide guidance on managing the environmental and health risks associated with recycled water, the Australian Government, along with the states and territories, developed a range of Australian Guidelines for Water Recycling - Managing Health and Environmental Risks . These guidelines form part of the National Water Quality Management Strategy.
Phase 2 of the Australian Guidelines for Water Recycling - Augmentation of Drinking Water Supplies, addressing recycled water for drinking purposes, was endorsed for release by governments in 2008. The guidelines incorporate a comprehensive review of the safety of recycled water for drinking.
Publications
- National Snapshot of Current and Planned Water Recycling and Reuse Rates - 2008
- Overview Document - Australian Guidelines for Water Recycling: Managing Health and Environmental Risks - Phase 1 - March 2008 (Environment Protection and Heritage Council)
- Recycled water quality - a guide to determining, monitoring and achieving safe concentrations of chemicals in recycled water (National Water Commission)
Related topics
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