Reusing Domestic Graywater as a Method of Water Demand Reduction in Jordan

SJ McIlwaine, Project Manager, Center for the Study of the Built Environment, (www.csbe.org)


Abstract
Graywater is the output from domestic bathtubs, showers, floor drains, sinks, and washing machines. Since it is not as contaminated as toilet water, it can easily be treated on-site for reuse in non-potable contexts such as garden irrigation. Reuse of graywater reduces the overall water demand, and saves on water bills. Studies have estimated that the usable domestic graywater resource could amount to as much as 35% of the total domestic demand.

Since September 2002, the Center for the Study of the Built Environment (CSBE) has been investigating graywater reuse in Jordan. Jordan is a water scarce country with a shortfall between supply and demand set to increase during the coming years. This paper provides a summary of the findings of the study. An overview of graywater reuse in other countries will be presented, and the implications of graywater reuse on health and environment will be discussed. 
Technical and socio-economic factors relating to graywater reuse in Jordan will be discussed. A selection of graywater schemes implemented in the Kingdom will be reviewed, demonstrating that graywater reuse is applicable and viable in Jordan, providing certain conditions are met. Some basic guidance on graywater reuse in Jordan will also be presented.