PUBLIC PERCEPTIONS ON THE USE OF TREATED WASTEWATER FOR DOMESTIC PURPOSES: THE CASE OF LILONGWE CITY

Abstract

Water, an important natural resource throughout the world, requires adequate management practices aimed at efficient use and distribution. While water reclamation, recycling and reuse are recognized around the world as key components of water and wastewater management, the successful implementation of any reuse project hinges on public acceptance. The main objective of this study was to investigate public perceptions on the use of treated wastewater for domestic purposes. Data was collected through a structured purposive survey questionnaire and interviews. The questionnaire was designed to investigate current wastewater disposal practices, knowledge in wastewater reuse and acceptance of wastewater reuse for domestic purposes. Results from this study showed that a majority of the respondents currently get rid of wastewater in their homes using septic tanks followed by use of hole absorbency through open pit. Less than one percent of the respondents indicated that they get rid of wastewater through the public sewer pipeline. The results also showed that most of the respondents were not aware of wastewater treatment and reuse. Overall, the respondents supported the establishment of a wastewater treatment plant for water reuse because of intermittent water supply being experienced in Lilongwe City. This study shows that 63.8% of respondents are willing to use treated wastewater for non-contact and non potable domestic purposes. However, some of the respondents indicated that would not use treated wastewater because they consider it unsafe for domestic purposes. Further, this study shows that 60.3% of the respondents accepted use of treated wastewater in order to reduce potable water usage.