Penulis
Reclaimed or recycled water (also
called wastewater reuse or water reclamation) is the process of
converting wastewater into water that can be reused for
other purposes.
Reuse may include irrigation of gardens and
agricultural fields or replenishing surface water and groundwater (i.e., groundwater
recharge). Reused water may also be directed toward fulfilling certain needs in
residences (e.g. toilet flushing), businesses, and industry, and could
even be treated to reach drinking water standards. This last option
is called either "direct potable reuse" or "indirect
potable" reuse, depending on the approach used. Colloquially, the term
"toilet to tap" also refers to potable reuse.
Reclaiming water for reuse applications instead of
using freshwater supplies can be a water-saving measure. When used
water is eventually discharged back into natural water sources, it can still
have benefits to ecosystems, improving streamflow, nourishing plant life
and recharging aquifers, as part of the natural water cycle.
Wastewater reuse is a long-established practice used for
irrigation, especially in arid countries. Reusing wastewater as part
of sustainable water management allows water to remain as an
alternative water source for human activities. This can reduce scarcity and
alleviate pressures on groundwater and other natural water bodies.