Lack of Clarity Around Policies, Data Management, and Infrastructure May Hinder the Efficient Use of Reclaimed Water Resources in the United States

Water reuse in the United States is growing in popularity as communities face new and increasing water supply concerns. As wastewater treatment technologies progress, the potential for reuse of reclaimed wastewater (treated effluent from municipal wastewater treatment plants) expands and is more likely to be implemented with increasing water scarcity and availability challenges. The progression of water reuse in the United States depends on the development of an effective policy environment that describes and promotes appropriate reuse practices. We conducted a holistic critical review of the water reuse policy environment in the United States to identify how policy specifics and recommended practices may affect the implementation of water reuse for non-potable applications. In this work, we consider state-level water reuse policy, generation and management of data from projects and research, and development or adaptation of treatment technologies and distribution infrastructure as important aspects of water reuse practices. We find several commonalities and divergences between different state policies that may hinder the development of reclaimed water resources in regions facing diverse water scarcity challenges. There are many lessons to be learned and implemented from existing policies, and future innovation in this field will require a multi-pronged, collaborative approach.