Public Acceptance of Water Reuse: Barriers and Facilitators in Yazd, Iran, in 2020

Abstract

Introduction: Droughts and precipitation imbalances in various parts of the world have underscored the significance of alternative water resources. In recent years, recycled water has emerged as a viable alternative, with wastewater being treated to a safe level for diverse purposes. However, the public acceptance of water reuse plays a pivotal role in determining the success of recycling initiatives. This study aims to identify the barriers and facilitators influencing public acceptance of water reuse in Yazd, Iran, during 2020. Material and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study involving 384 individuals in Yazd city during 2020 was conducted. Participants were selected using the stratified sampling method. The data collection tool consisted of a researcher-made questionnaire, and the collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the Pearson correlation test in SPSS software version 23. Results: The most crucial facilitator for acceptance was the concept of segregating drinking water and recycled water networks. The primary barrier to acceptance was the perceived risk of recycled water contamination and potential health hazards. Water reuse was most widely accepted for construction purposes, followed by toilet flush tanks and irrigation of green spaces in parks and sports fields. A positive correlation (r = 0.416) existed between facilitators and acceptance of water reuse, indicating that enhancing facilitators positively affected acceptance. Conclusion: To successfully implement water reuse projects, it is essential to consider key facilitators such as segregated water systems for different household uses, raising public awareness about the benefits of water reuse, and building public trust in recycled water safety.