Water reuse in Iran with an emphasis on potable reuse

Abstract

Abstract. Iran is facing a serious water crisis, which must be addressed if Iran is to move forward in becoming a developed nation. Iran's water shortage problem has been caused by multiple factors including limited surface and groundwater availability. The current water shortage in Iran is an issue that can only be resolved by considering the entire water portfolio. One alternative solution to the water shortage problem in Iran is to adapt an integrated sustainable water management system though e cient utilization of the existing water supplies including the adoption of an e ective water reclamation and water reuse program. Reclaimed water could be used to augment existing water supply sources for both non-potable and potable purposes. This introductory paper is part of a series of articles documenting the use of reclaimed water for potable reuse. Topics covered in this introductory paper include: (1) an introduction to the water situation in Iran, (2) identi cation of the types of potable reuse, (3) presentation of successful potable reuse projects including lessons learned, (4) brief summary of key implementation components of a successful potable reuse program, and (5) special challenges and barriers on implementation of potable reuse in Iran, and (6) the bene ts expected from potable reuse program in Iran. Additional information on technical aspects including operations and monitoring, and more detail information on the implementation of water reuse program will be presented in the future articles.

Evaluation of Water Scarcity in Selected Countries of the Middle East

“…They deem agriculture as the main water withdrawal sector. They also identify the major droughts in accordance to our study [36,37]. The relationship between weather measured by hydrothermal indices and yield has been examined by several authors [38,39].…”

“…The agricultural sector in Iran, Iraq or Saudi Arabia has mainly been studied and written about by these authors [36,37]. According to their study, rainfall water alone is unable to support the ongoing agricultural irrigation practice.…”

Explaining the Dimensions and Components of the Competency Model for Managers of Iran's Water Resource

“…The technical competencies identified, such as expertise in water resource management and policy implementation, are crucial for navigating the complex regulatory and environmental challenges in this sector. This finding is supported by the work of Kayhanian and Tchobanoglous (2016), who highlighted the need for profound technical knowledge in water reuse and management practices in Iran (Kayhanian & Tchobanoglous, 2016). Furthermore, our results on the necessity of analytical abilities, including problem-solving and critical thinking, are corroborated by Qiao and Wang (2009), who noted these skills as essential for middle managers in varied contexts, facilitating effective decision-making and problem resolution (Qiao & Wang, 2009).…”

“…Competencies in leadership, decision-making, and technical expertise are pivotal in ensuring that managers can effectively guide their organizations through complex and challenging environments (Qiao & Wang, 2009). This is particularly relevant in sectors like water management, where the implications of decisions extend beyond the organization to affect broader ecological and social systems (Kayhanian & Tchobanoglous, 2016).…”

From Acceptance Snapshots to the Social Acceptability Process: Structuring Knowledge on Attitudes Towards Water Reuse

“…Binz et al (2018),Meehan et al (2013) Clear water reuse criteria for environmental and human healthParanychianakis et al (2015) Specific legal frameworks at national and local levelsSanchez-Flores et al (2016),Kayhanian and Tchobanoglous (2016) The need for systematic assessments including hazard identification, control measures, monitoring, incident protocols and regulation surveillance World Health Organisation(2017)Market-related issues Adequate rates for reused water Jensen and Yu(2016), Aleisa and Al-Zubari (2017) Lack of economic feasibility or Willingness to Pay (WTP); Need for subsidies to achieve cost recovery; Demand management of reused water Molinos-Senante et al (2013), Sgroi et al (2018), Ravishankar et al (2018), Duong and Saphores (2015) Lack of adequate competition policies Horne (2016) The need for incentives for water reuse projects and public leadership Garcia and Pargament (2015), Miller (2006) Infrastructure and distribution Inadequate infrastructure and distribution networks van Rensburg (2016), Aleisa and Al-Zubari (2017), Brown et al (2018) Path dependence on centralized, large-scale infrastructure Bichai et al (2018) Participatory and comprehensive reuse strategies Lack of stakeholder engagement, public participation and communication Lautze et al (2014), Sanchez-Flores et al (2016), Aldaco-Manner et al (2019) Lack of embeddedness within larger water security plans and water supply strategies; The need for expanding strategies to incorporate wider circular economy concepts van Rensburg (2016),Sgroi et al (2018) …”