November 14, 2013
A report released this October provides a comprehensive look at the future potential role of direct potable reuse (DPR) in Australia and internationally. The report, titled “Drinking Water through Recycling: The Benefits and Costs of Supplying Direct to the Distribution System,” was published by the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering (ATSE).
To encourage the use of DPR, ATSE recommends:
- The regulation of drinking water quality should be health-based.
- Harmonize guidelines to improve the management and regulation of DPR projects.
- Implement external auditing of water quality management.
- Enhance the capabilities and powers of regulators.
- Improve water treatment process reliability, monitoring, and validation.
- Establish DPR reference sites around Australia and develop community-engagement programs about water reuse.