Challenges and prospects of reclaimed water reuse in Spanish agriculture

Abstract

A comprehensive analysis of reclaimed water in Spanish agriculture indicates that these practices are predominately concentrated in coastal areas, with moderate expansion into inland regions. Despite some progress, several barriers persist across political, economic, social, technological, environmental, and legal dimensions. The most influential barriers include salinity, emerging contaminants, weak institutional coordination and slow administrative procedures. Overcoming these obstacles calls for stronger regulatory frameworks, greater collaboration among government agencies and stakeholders, improved treatment technologies, and more effective management practices. Together, these efforts can pave the way for wider adoption of wastewater reclamation and reuse projects in Spain.