Greywater reuse in Saudi Arabia: current situation and future potential

Abstract

Water conservation and reclaimed wastewater use are currently being considered as strategic solutions to water supply limitations in Saudi Arabia and other arid and semi-arid countries. Greywater is non-industrial wastewater generated from domestic sources other than toilet wastewater (blackwater). Sources of greywater include landscaping drainage, showers, baths, sinks and washing machines. Greywater represents a substantial fraction of total domestic wastewater and, because it contains lower levels of contaminants, is much easier to treat than blackwater. Public acceptance of treated greywater use is an important prerequisite for expanding its implementation and realising even greater freshwater savings. Public reluctance to reuse greywater is most likely based on two important factors: cost and quality. Greywater reuse incurs both initial and continuing costs. In countries like Saudi Arabia, the cost of greywater reclamation and reuse is lower than the actual cost of fresh water; however, this fact may not be appreciated by most of the public because freshwater is currently subsidised by the government. The goal of this study is to assess the degree of public acceptance of greywater reuse. Data from 721 household owners were collected, analysed, and evaluated in the context of additional available information. The results are presented and suitable recommendations are discussed.