Treated wastewater use in Gaza District: The question of public acceptance

Abstract

The Gaza District faces a crucial water shortage problem. The problem characterised by a total water demand of about 120 Million cubic meter (120 Mm3), associated with a limited sustainable water resources of about 60 Mm3. The Palestinian water sector planners consider the reuse of treated wastewater as an option to cover part of the demand. The question of the public acceptance for reuse of treated wastewater is investigated in this article. A questionnaire was designed to study the public attitudes toward the reuse of treated wastewater for different purposes: domestic, industrial and agricultural. Some 201 persons were interviewed all over the Gaza District, of which 85 females and 116 males. The questionnaire was conducted through personal interview.