Resource recovery from wastewater and the consumer point of view: social, cultural and economic aspects
2022
Drechsel, Pay | Otoo, Miriam | Hanjra, Munir A.
Water, nutrient, and energy recovery from wastewater offers a sustainable solution to resource scarcity, but public acceptance remains a key barrier. While the use of treated wastewater for landscaping and irrigation is often accepted, applications involving direct human contact like potable reuse face resistance due to health concerns and the “yuck factor.” Acceptance increases with education, exposure, and perceived water scarcity, as seen in Windhoek, Namibia.In agriculture, biosolids and struvite-based fertilizers show potential, but farmers remain hesitant due to fears about contamination, odor, and food safety. Many prefer using raw wastewater, valuing its nutrient content despite the health risks. Informal and unregulated reuse continues across many low-income regions, often driven by necessity. Adoption of safe reuse practices depends on behavior change, incentives, and trust. Women, often responsible for water use at home, are more risk-aware but frequently excluded from decision-making. Addressing these social and cultural dynamics is critical for scaling resource recovery. By combining technical innovation with inclusive engagement and awareness, wastewater reuse can contribute to food security, climate resilience, and circular economy goals, especially in water-stressed regions.
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