Indirect Potable Reuse: A Sustainable Water Supply Alternative

Abstract

Abstract:The growing scarcity of potable water supplies is among the most important issues facing many cities, in particular those using single sources of water that are climate dependent. Consequently, urban centers are looking to alternative sources of water supply that can supplement variable rainfall and meet the demands of population growth. A diversified portfolio of water sources is required to ensure public health, as well as social, economical and environmental sustainability. One of the options considered is the augmentation of drinking water supplies with advanced treated recycled water. This paper aims to provide a state of the art review of water recycling for drinking purposes with emphasis on membrane treatment processes. An overview of significant indirect potable reuse projects is presented followed by a description of the epidemiological and toxicological studies evaluating any potential human health impacts. Finally, a summary of key operational measures to protect human health and the areas that require further research are discussed.

Framework for the optimization of operation and design of systems with different alternative water sources

“…While desalination is a climate independent (and therefore more reliable) source, is often not the most cost effective or environmentally sensitive option (Becker et al 2010;Miller et al 2015). Recycled wastewater is also climate independent, and generally used for large scale non-potable applications (Muga and Mihelcic 2008;Oron et al 2014), however, it can also be used for indirect or direct potable supply (Rodriguez et al 2009;Nagal 2015). Domestic rainwater tanks are increasing in popularity and have benefits of reducing water usage from utilities and reducing stormwater runoff from houses (Campisano and Modic 2012;Umapathi et al 2013).…”

A group decision-making tool for the application of membrane technologies in different water reuse scenarios

“…Among these are membrane assisted technologies, which have been employed and proven to be suitable and reliable in different urban water reuse scenarios (Shannon et al, 2008). These technologies enable the production of high quality recycled water at reasonable costs and comparably reduced energy input (Rodriguez et al, 2009). One of the challenges has been how to select an appropriate membrane technology for a specific water reuse scenario.…”

Hazard and risk assessment for indirect potable reuse schemes: An approach for use in developing Water Safety Plans

“…Indirect potable reuse (IPR) is defined as "the abstraction, treatment, and distribution of water for drinking from a natural source water that is fed in part by the discharge of wastewater effluent" (NRC, 1998).In addition, IPR can be further subcategorised as "unplanned" where treated wastewater is reabstracted downstream due to historic legacy or "planned" where the process is actively managed. More than fifteen planned IPR facilities are already operating worldwide, some of which have been functioning for over 20 years (Asano et al, 2007;Rodriguez et al, 2009). To date, neither environmental or public health problems have been detected, and such schemes are becoming more common as available water becomes increasingly scarce (Del Pino and Durham, 1999;Singapore Public Utilities Board, 2002;Asano et al, 2007;IWA, 2008).…”