Recently, a report prepared by the Global Wastewater Initiative (GWWI), a global institution which brings many international agencies together to manage Wastewater.

The report titled as, 'Wastewater - Turning Problem into Solution' was released.

This report follows up on the Sick Water Report from 2011 and aims to achieve sustainable growth in water management techniques.

What is Wastewater?

It refers to that water which has been used and contaminated through various natural or human activities.

Key Takeaways from the Report:

• Wastewater reuse shall help the problem of global salination of water.
• Public perception of wastewater management should be changed.
• Increasing wastewater reuse in international policy is crucial to addressing climate, nature, and pollution crises.
• Wastewater has huge potential locked in it as it can serve as an alternative energy source for more than half of the population.
• Wastewater can be a source of raw materials for various industries including paper, polymers, rubber, paint, and many more.

The Issues:

• Improper wastewater management is a global challenge.
• Pressure on existing water resources is only increasing.
• The rarity of instances of reuse of wastewater indicates untapped potential.
• Untreated wastewater by industries remains a significant issue.
• Vulnerable groups especially the poor suffer disproportionately due to the crises.
• Sustainable water management offers co-benefits of improved environmental health.
• Barriers to wastewater recovery such as inadequate political support and governance issues.

Solution:

Sustainable wastewater management involves three key areas:

1. Reducing wastewater production.
2. Preventing contamination.
3. Sustainably managing wastewater for reuse.

Addressing these areas shall require the support of effective governance, investment, and enhancing capacity.

Realizing the economic value of wastewater is essential.

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Reference:

• insightsonindia.com
• www.unep.org