Development of an ecotoxicity toolbox to evaluate water quality for recycling
Project details
| Objective: | To develop tests to determine the toxicity levels of hundreds of chemicals associated with recycled water, develop accurate indicators for monitoring these chemicals and to assess the efficiency of various engineered and natural treatment systems in Western Australia. |
| Funding: | $500,000 plus applicable GST from the Australian Government towards costs associated with supporting the work program. Total value of the project is $1,275,000 with $775,000 being contributed by the Western Australian Government and other project partners. |
| Jurisdiction: | WA |
| Commenced: | November 2007 |
| Completion: | to be launched at the Water Reuse and Desalination: Water Scarcity Solutions for the 21st Century November, 2010 |
Read about the project's progress.
About the project
The project builds on national and international experience in understanding the risk assessment processes associated with recycled water for drinking and environmental purposes. The project has developed tests to determine the toxicity levels of chemicals associated with recycled water.
The project has also developed accurate indicators to help assess the efficiency of various engineered and natural treatment systems in Western Australia. The toolbox of specialised water tests are capable of adoption and use in other locations in Australia. This toolbox will potentially build the confidence of water users and environmental managers in the use of recycled water and advance the uptake of recycling across Australia.
Project benefits
Recycled water is widely recognised as a viable water supply option as it provides a water supply that is tolerant to drought and varying rainfall patterns. The 'yuck factor' has been a major deterrent in establishing water recycling programs in Australia. This project has provided scientific research-based tools to understand and manage recycled water schemes into the future.
The toolbox developed provides a valuable management and communication tool in demonstrating to communities that it is possible to measure the toxicity of chemicals of concern and manage the risk when using recycled water for human consumption.
This project will also make a significant contribution to the implementation of National Guidelines for Water Recycling - Phase 2 and the NWC Project Review of Urban Water Quality Regulation.