Recover Water and MaterialsLess surface runoff to nearby natural water bodies
- Less water pollution and eutrophication (excess nutrients in water that causes an imbalance of algae and plants)
Use reclaimed water to:
- Recharge groundwater supplies
- Augment stream flow during dry periods for fish protection
Resource
Wastewater from residents, industry and municipal systems
When is it Waste?
When it reaches collection systems
Conventional Approach
Collect, treat, and discharge to a receiving environment
Regenerative Approach
Collect, treat, and reuse water for regulator-approved nonpotable purposes, such as landscape irrigation and flushing toilets.
How it Works
Wastewater can be treated and disinfected to produce useable non-potable water. Water recovered from wastewater is commonly referred to as “reclaimed” water. Reclaimed water used for irrigation is conveyed in purple pipe.
But First
Encourage water conservation through community outreach and education.
Reduce the amount of rainwater/stormwater entering the municipal liquid waste stream by enhancing green stormwater infrastructure.
What are the Costs?
Costs for reclaimed water increase with the degree of treatment used. Taking an integrated approach, it is possible for the extra cost to be offset by reduced infrastructure costs and increased value in the community.
Where is it Happening?
Considerations for Implementation
To fully explore the costs and benefits of water reclamation and reuse, take an integrated, long-term approach and include the capital and operating costs of potable water infrastructure and treatment, wastewater infrastructure and treatment, and the benefits of re-use in any feasibility or cost/benefit analysis.
For example, if treated wastewater can be reused, the analysis would need to account for the cost savings of the reduced demand on potable water infrastructure and reduced demand on sewer infrastructure. Concerns related to public health concerns need to be addressed and public and stakeholder consultation should be early and ongoing. Treated water must comply with applicable regulations, including the B.C. Building Code, the Drinking Water Protection Act and the Reclaimed Water Guideline (2013) under the Municipal Wastewater Regulation and the Environmental Management Act.
