Greywater Use In The Middle East: Technical, Social, Economic and Policy Issues

Freshwater scarcity is an environmental fact in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The MENA region is also faced with geopolitical problems that naturally end up affecting natural-resource equity. In water-scarce areas of the Middle East, grey water (household wastewater excluding toilet waste) is commonly used by poor communities to irrigate home gardens. This both supplements the water available to the household and improves food security. This book draws together material presented at a conference in Jordan in 2007, and examines the technical approaches to treating and using grey water for irrigation, including its associated risks to health and the environment. It discusses many of the non-technical issues that influence effectiveness and sustainability of grey water use. It also takes a hard look at economic issues, arguing that more clarity and consistency from policymakers is essential if low-income, water-stressed communities are to make better and safer use of their existing water supplies. The book concludes by offering suggestions for where donor efforts and research could best be focused in the near future.

Post Date : 28 Juli 2010