Wastewater reuse for agriculture: regional health perspective

The Eastern Mediterranean Region of the WHO is the poorest region in the world in water resources as a Region and per capita. This paper summarizes existing practices and constraints regarding wastewater treatment and reuse in the Region and describes the health impact of inappropriate practices. Appropriate treatment for agricultural use from the health point of view, and the health regulations and guidelines for wastewater reuse in the Region are outlined. The work of the WHO Regional Office to assist countries face the challenges of water scarcity and wastewater reuse are described. Finally, key suggestions that could enhance the use of reclaimed wastewater while at the same time safeguarding human health are presented

Helminth eggs in raw and treated wastewater in the Islamic Republic of Iran

To assess the type and load of helminths in wastewater and the quality of treatment, we examined the raw and treated wastewater of 8 wastewater treatment plants [WTP] in Tehran and 2 in Isfahan for the presence of helminth eggs during 2002-2003. Wastewater samples obtained from both inlet and effluent of each treatment plant were examined on several occasions using the modified Bailenger method. Untreated entry wastewater in Tehran WTPs contained a larger variety of helminth eggs than those of Isfahan, as well as higher total egg counts. The helminths identified in the influent of Tehran included Ascaris lumbricoides, hookworms, Enterobius vermicularis, Trichostrongylus spp., Taenia spp., Hymenolepis nana and Dicrocoelium dendriticum, while in Isfahan only A. lumbricoides, Trichostriogylus and H. nana were isolated. After treatment, the number of eggs/L fell to </= 1 egg/L

Overview of greywater management health considerations

Much of the daily-generated wastewater is recognized as greywater which represents about 60% of the total generated wastewater. Greywater can be used for different purposes, such as garden watering, ornamental uses in fountains and waterfalls, landscaping, lawn irrigation, car washing and toilet flushing. Greywater reuse utilizes an on-site resource which would otherwise be wasted. As a result of reuse, 40% of the fresh drinking-water supplies are conserved. Greywater reuse succeeds in saving money spent by water authorities, reduces sewage flows and reduces the public demand on potable water supplies. By reusing greywater, the load on wastewater disposal systems is reduced, and therefore, the life of the wastewater disposal system is prolonged and capital expenditure required for the upgrading and expansion of systems is delayed. As greywater is contaminated with faecal coliforms and some chemical pollutants from bathing and laundry, microbial and chemical contaminated of greywater poses a potential risk to human health, and so it is important to recognize that greywater does have the potential to transmit disease. Accordingly, this guide was prepared to act as a set of guidelines and procedures for the safe reuse of greywater. This guide has been prepared to assist government officers, homeowners, site and soil evaluators, designers, installers and service technicians with regard to the safe reuse of wastewater, and to act as a guide in the process of designing, installing and maintaining greywater systems in a manner which protects human health, plants, soil and the environment

Overview of the water and wastewater reuse crisis in the Eastern Mediterranean Region

Many countries of the Eastern Mediterranean region have very limited water resources. The situation will worsen in the future as populations grow and demands rise, and water/wastewater reuse will become imperative. This paper reviews the current situation in the Region as regards water use/reuse and management, and gives suggestions for how to ensure sufficient water resources for the future

Guiding principles and options for accelerated extension of wastewater management services to small communities in EMR countries

This document is the main output of CEHA's Technical Expert Consultation on Innovative Wastewater Management for Small Communities in the Eastern Mediterranean Countries which was held in Amman 6-9 November 2000. The following is the executive summary of the document. Accelerated extension of wastewater management services to small communities in the Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMR) is essential to address serious concerns over water scarcity, pollution and protection of public health. Wastewater services must be developed to deliver the following benefits: Protect public health and well being of the communities: Meet the increasing demand for convenience; Protect the scarce water resources and the household and community environment from pollution; and Alleviate the pressure on the scarce freshwater resources by maximizing reuse opportunities. The costly and water intensive centralized wastewater management systems are inappropriate for small communities. The introduction of centralized wastewater systems in small communities in EMR can not be justified for the following important reasons: Centralized wastewater systems aggravate the water crisis. Centralized wastewater systems use excessive amounts of water to transport excreta; and Centralized wastewater systems are costly and unaffordable especially in small communities. Money and water are not available in EMR countries to provide centralized wastewater systems to small communities. Accordingly the needs will remain unmet and pollution will continue to consume the scarce freshwater resources. To facilitate accelerated and environmentally responsible development of wastewater services to small communities in EMR countries, the consultation recommends shifting from the centralized wastewater management approach to a more appropriate approach that responsive to the needs and conditions in EMR' s small communities. The recommended approach provides wastewater services that are: Robust, efficient and equally convenient; Cost effective; and Environmentally responsible and responsive to the water scarcity

Water-conscious development and the prevention of water misuse and wastage in the Eastern Mediterranean Region

Many countries of the World Health Organization Eastern Mediterranean Region suffer from severe water shortage, primarily as a result of population growth. The problem will undoubtedly worsen in the future with possibly drastic consequences. This paper outlines the current situation in the Region and the possible impact of water scarcity on health and the environment. Water conservation in agricultural, commercial and domestic areas is discussed from the perspective of water-conscious development and possible strategies are proposed