Potential Application of Reclaimed Water for Potable Reuse: Part III- The Path Forward and Implementation Challenges

This paper (Part III) is the third in a series of three papers on potential application of water reuse for potable use. Introductory and background material on potable water reuse was presented in Part I. Technical and regulatory issues related to potable water reuse were presented in Part II. The principal focus of this paper (Part III) is on the issues that must be evaluated, beyond the technical and regulatory issues discussed in Part II, when considering potable water reuse. Topics addressed in this paper include: 1) the path forward for potable water reuse in Iran; 2) implementation challenges, including those associated with public outreach for potable reuse application in Iran; and 3) closing thoughts on the future of potable reuse in Iran. In the path forward, the case is made for employing a decentralized wastewater management strategy utilizing satellite wastewater reclamation facilities for water reuse, including potable reuse. The lack of operating experience with advanced water treatment facilities and potable reuse regulations are among the many challenges that must be overcome in the implementation of potable water reuse in Iran. To meet future water needs a sustainable water resources management program that includes potable reuse, as part of the water portfolio, must be developed for Iran.