As the population swells, the need for freshwater continues to increase. This is true for Florida’s rapidly growing population as well as most other portions of the globe. This is precisely why many economists have dubbed water as the “new gold”. Demand for freshwater has the potential to outpace supply unless a well-reasoned strategy for water resource management is adopted. One of the more popular approaches is the use of municipal wastewater for varied applications ranging from domestic use to agricultural use and industrial purposes. This solution is referred to as water reclamation and reuse.
Defining Water Reclamation
Water reclamation is best defined as the processing or treatment of wastewater in order to make it reusable. Such water must prove reusable within a well-defined treatment reliability. It must also be in accordance with specific water quality standards. Most reclaimed water is treated twice. Some reclaimed water passes through three processes before returning to customers.
The terms reclaimed water and recycled water are commonly interchanged. Water reclamation should be distinguished from water that is reused. Water reuse refers to the use of reclaimed water or treated wastewater for a positive outcome.
The Many Benefits of Water Reclamation Systems
Water reclamation systems qualify as an Environmentally Sound Technology. This solution to the emerging water crisis is favored for a number of different reasons. Water reclamation systems will continue to grow in popularity as they:
- Safeguard the environment
- Make use of our limited supply of water in a sustainable manner
- Decrease pollution
- Manage residual waste better than other technologies
- Allow for the recycling of waste
This system is an excellent means of conserving water for your home or business. Furthermore, the use of a water reclamation system will decrease your water bill to boot.
Guidelines for the use of Reclaimed Water
Reclaimed water only qualifies as reclaimed if it meets or exceeds the lofty water quality standards as established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This water should not be consumed in an oral manner, used for bathing purposes or used to fill a swimming pool or hot tub. There is a strict scope of usability for reclaimed water.
Reclaimed water should be used to irrigate your property’s lawn or landscaping. It can be used to water crops like fruits and vegetables that will be cooked or peeled before ingestion. Reclaimed water can also be used to refill fountains, ponds and other niceties on your property. This water can even be used to supply a commercial air conditioning system that relies on water-cooling for functionality.
Why so Many Florida Property Owners are Using Water Reclamation Systems
As noted above, there are numerous uses for reclaimed water. This multitude of uses is a large part of water reclamation systems’ appeal. Reclaimed water systems conserve a considerable amount of water. Consider the fact that one-half of the sunshine state’s drinking water is used to irrigate grass, greenery, and crops. Irrigation demand soars during the annual dry season. The result is a drop in the water level. Those who make use of a water reclamation system for their irrigation needs will help the surrounding community conserve the limited amount of drinking water.
Water conservation will prove essential to our area’s collective goal of making it through the summer months with a consistent supply of water. It also conserves water for future generations. Water reclamation systems typically yield hundreds of dollars in water bill savings. Add in the fact that every household and business can use reclaimed water for irrigation purposes and it is easy to see why this technology is exploding in popularity.
