Stormwater reuse, a viable option: Fact or fiction?

Abstract

The increasing spread of urbanisation is a common phenomenon witnessed in most parts of the world due to the perceived benefits of urban living. A compounding issue is the growing shortage of safe and reliable water sources. Perennial water shortages are becoming a common feature in many parts of the world. It is important to recognise stormwater reuse as a key resource for securing adequate future water supplies based on the concept of ‘water fit for purpose’. These require careful prioritisation of vulnerabilities, identification of the areas requiring adaptation and provide certainty of outcomes. Given the increasing inevitability of climate change it should be viewed as an opportunity to take advantage of new opportunities which stormwater reuse presents. This study identified key barriers to stormwater reuse and the difficulties in removing them.