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