Decentralized Water and Wastewater Reuse

1. Background and Starting Point:

Decentralized reuse of reclaimed water has considerable potential for also providing non-potable grounds irrigation and landscaping waters, as well as for gardens, flower beds and for water features such as ponds, fountains, etc. at facilities such as golf courses, hotels, schools and businesses. In addition reuse of reclaimed water can enhance non-potable water supplies for vehicle washing, toilet flushing, and even potentially provide cold-water for laundry water supplies. If carefully managed this reuse water is expected to carry only very limited risks and associated difficulties. Some countries, such as Australia and Sweden, are nearly 10 years ahead of the U.S. in terms of water reuse for provision of non-potable water needs. This is particularly the case for decentralized reuse systems that are distributed throughout communities, whether these communities have centralized sewers or not.

Hence, we established the International Decentralized Water and Wastewater Reuse Think Tank in January 2009 at North Carolina State University's Soil Science Department. Our purpose is to gather the knowledge needed to allow research-based and enhanced decision-making about decentralized water and wastewater reuse. Goals include:

identifying barriers that exist throughout North America to implementation of decentralized reuse strategies,
defining the parameters and key attributes of these identified barriers so as to allow critical thinking that can identify methods needed to appropriately break down barriers using gap analysis and science-based research studies,
conducting targeted, compact research studies that address the most important research and technology gaps or other societal elements of these barriers and
implementing this research-based information through effective professional training programs and public education efforts within a 3-5 year timeframe.

Think Tank mission Statement
Think Tank January 2009 meeting inaugural meeting agenda
Think Tank concepts and needs
Think Tank January 2009 meeting luncheon minutes
Think Tank January 2009 meeting dinner minutes
Think Tank January 2009 Meeting Participants
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