Future-oriented technologies and concepts to increase water availability by water reuse and desalination

Abstract

Printed by BMBF Water in sufcient quantity and quality is fundamental for human health, the sustainable development of regions and an intact environment. However, water is becoming scarce not only in arid areas, but in many regions of the world. The ability to adequately supply households, agriculture and industry with water is becoming an ever greater global challenge. Water demand will drastically increase worldwide in the coming years. Main reasons are population growth, increasing industrial and agricultural activities and the expansion of metropolitan areas. At the same time, the availability of water is already severely limited and is even declining regionally. Contaminated and over-exploited water resources, climate change and the uneven distribution of supplies are contributory factors.