Recycled water irrigation in Australia

Abstract

Access to water has been identified as one of the most limiting factors to economic growth in Australia’s horticultural sector. Water reclaimed from wastewater (sewage) is being increasingly recognised as an important resource, and the agricultural sector is currently the largest consumer of this resource. An overview of the Australian experience of using reclaimed wastewater to grow horticultural crops is presented in this chapter. The wastewater treatment process and governing regulations are discussed in relation to risk minimisation practices which ensure that this resource is used in a sustainable manner without impacting adversely on human health or the environment. A case study covering the socio-economic and environmental implications of recycled water irrigation is also presented.