Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment for Wastewater Reuse in Irrigation and Survey Public Attitude towards Wastewater Reuses in Saudi Arabia

Conference Paper

2010

Published in: Improved Water Use Efficiency through Recycling and Reuse

Alataway, Abed . 2010

Introduction/Problem Identification
Many parts of the world face shortage of fresh water. Saudi Arabia (SA) is no exception. Most of 
the SA is arid and freshwater resources are limited. The annual rainfall is less than 150 mm in most 
parts of the country. The national water balance estimated for 2010 indicates that demand will be 
approximately 18 billion m³. Only 4 billion m³ will be available from natural and other renewable 
resources. More than 80% of water consumed is in the agricultural sector. Therefore, wastewater reuse 
(WWR) for irrigated practices, contributes as a means of integrated water resources management and 
also in order to cope with unforeseen future critical conditions that might affect food production. The 
WWR in agriculture is receiving increased attention in SA due to the scarcity of fresh water. However, 
wastewater generally contains high levels of microorganisms, which may have adverse health effects 
on farmers and consumers in addition to public perception of risk associated with the WWR

 

• Publication Work Type: ورقة علمية
• Conference Location: Stockholm, Sweden
• Conference Name: World Water Week in Stockholm
• Sponsoring Organization: Stockholm International Water Institute