Stakeholders' perspectives on water reuse in the agricultural sector in Lebanon -

Abstract

The increasing population and the high levels of water pollution that lead to the shortage of available freshwater sources in Lebanon, necessitates the reliance on supplementary water sources. The reuse of treated wastewater is considered one optimal supplementary source for fresh water, especially at the agricultural sector which utilizes more than 70percent of the freshwater resources. Accordingly, this study focuses on examining the Lebanese stakeholders’ knowledge, perception, and attitude towards the reuse of treated wastewater at the agricultural sector in Lebanon. An in-depth interview was conducted with stakeholders from concerned ministries, Syndicate of farmers, farmers, and religious figures. Results were contextually and comprehensively analyzed, examined, and evaluated. Findings revealed that most of the respondents acknowledged that treated wastewater could be used as a supplement for fresh water. The risks that were found to be associated with the implementation of a water reuse project in Lebanon are: ethical (social justice and trust in authorities), religious (delivering safe water quality), social (location of the treatment plant and consumers’ acceptance to utilize treated wastewater), and economical (commitment of end users to pay imposed charges). The respondents suggested various key steps that could be done to enhance the governmental transparency and accountability throughout the work flow. The respondents also suggested various enabling factors that could help in managing the risks associated with implementing a wastewater treatment project in Lebanon. Respondents stressed on public involvement and its facilitation through legal authorities, non-governmental organizations, and media channels.