Public perception about treated wastewater reuse in Beirut, Lebanon -

Abstract

The problem of water shortage has been aggravated in most countries in the Middle East and Lebanon is no exception. Treated wastewater reuse, an unconventional source of water, could provide a viable and sustainable option in water demand management.Perceived health risks, confidence and trust authorities (MPs, municipalities, NGOs, media), public knowledge and education are considered to be the major social drivers that might affect the perceptions of the community. This study is the first of its kind in Lebanon to shed light on the perception of the community to use treated wastewater for various purposes within the Administrative Beirut Area. Survey results revealed that there is an inverse relation between the degree of human contact with the treated wastewater and the public acceptance. People are more inclinedtowards the reuse for purposes with minimal human contact such as landscaping and agriculture.Willingness to use treated wastewater in general was found to vary as a function of disgust factor, religion, and diseases.Willingness to use for non-potable purposes was found to vary as a function of education and respondents' awareness. Respondents who stated a willingness to use treated wastewater for domestic purposes generally trust non-governmental organizations and academicians more than members of the parliament, municipalities and media. Disgust factor alone does not explain the negative public response of the community members. Had people heard more about successful implementation stories they would have become less reluctant towards using treated wastewater. Awareness campaigns designed to promote the water reuse projects in the country should be transmitted by environmental and public health NGOs. Ultimately, collaboration and coordination between all stakeholders are crucial to ensure social acceptability towards wastewater reuse. This research laid down the foundations for further in-depth research to better design appropriate strategies, measures, policy reforms and incentive schemes needed to