Workshop 5: Reduction, Reuse and Recycling of Domestic Water – Benefits, Health Risks, and Consumers’ Inclusivity

Across the world, consumers demand 24/7 access to safe, wholesome and aesthetically pleasing water. However, behavioural changes to become “greener”, population growth, climate change, emergence of new chemicals and increasing scarcity of quality water sources have led to adaptations made to the water distribution infrastructure and management, including of internal and community water systems. Ideas that were once “on the fringe” (e.g. rainwater harvesting) have become mainstream options. The awareness required of consumers and practitioners in this evolving context, to ensure public health is not adversely impacted, has not kept pace with the changes in the way water in homes, communities and public buildings is delivered. The end users/consumers seem least represented in conversations about water and yet they must be included if they are to become aware of the impacts of their water use behaviours. Public confidence in water supplies is essential and access to safe water is a fundamental human right. However, it is consumed with little awareness and consideration of the health risks and benefits. This workshop discussed the health dimensions of reducing domestic water use and re-using and recycling water for safe consumptions, the evolution of standards and good practice in plumbing to protect health and the importance of consumer inclusivity in balancing risks and benefits in the water sector’s efforts to achieve universal access against the backdrop of growing constraints.