Utilization of Treated Wastewater for Irrigation of Agricultural Crops

The application in agriculture of treated wastewater (TWW) is expanding worldwide and in particular in dryland regions such as the Mediterranean region in general and the Middle East in particular. Freshwater, which was formerly directed to agriculture, is increasingly being utilized by the ever-increasing municipal sector as a result of population increase and improved the standard of living. A major source that can account for the demand in the agricultural sector is TWW. Therefore, the percentage of wastewater that undergoes treatment is constantly increasing. This article will focus on the need to not only increase the quantity of TWW but to thoroughly enhance their quality prior to application. This article will focus on potential adverse effects related to TWW irrigation and will briefly discuss means that can be employed to reduce or avoid their effects. A number of undesired traits are higher in TWW than in their freshwater (FW) source. Of these, the most important ones are (i) organic - suspended and dissolved organic matter (DOM) and micro pollutants; and (ii) inorganic - total soluble salts, sodium, chloride, boron, and heavy metals. All of the above pose a threat to soil quality, as well as to plant and human health.