The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan located in the Middle East is facing a critical water shortage. Water availability in the country falls far below global water poverty thresholds. Jordan’s primary water sources are limited surface water and heavily overdrawn groundwater reserves which lead to enduring water stress and heightened vulnerability to shortages. The situation is further worsened by rapid population growth, urban expansion, and increasing agricultural demands making sustainable water management essential. One innovative approach to address this challenge is using treated wastewater for groundwater recharge. This method involves injecting or allowing treated wastewater to seep into aquifers to help replenish groundwater supplies and increase the availability of fresh water for various usage purposes. Additionally, recycling treated wastewater reduces discharge into rivers and other surface water bodies reducing pollution levels and supporting the restoration of ecosystems. However, this solution comes with challenges. Ensuring wastewater is thoroughly treated before it reaches aquifers is crucial to prevent contamination. This approach is not only enhances water availability but also contributes to pollution reduction and aquifer recovery. Achieving these outcomes requires advanced treatment technologies, rigorous monitoring systems, and robust regulatory measures. This research indicates that only 0.02% (7 km2) of Jordan’s total area is suitable for groundwater recharge. This underscores the importance of focusing efforts on these limited zones to address the country’s urgent water needs effectively.

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Treated Wastewater for Sustainable Groundwater Recharge

  • Ahmed Alawneh,
  • Moayyad Shawaqfah,
  • Osama Nusier,
  • Alhaj-Saleh A. Odat,
  • A’kif Al-Fugara

摘要

The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan located in the Middle East is facing a critical water shortage. Water availability in the country falls far below global water poverty thresholds. Jordan’s primary water sources are limited surface water and heavily overdrawn groundwater reserves which lead to enduring water stress and heightened vulnerability to shortages. The situation is further worsened by rapid population growth, urban expansion, and increasing agricultural demands making sustainable water management essential. One innovative approach to address this challenge is using treated wastewater for groundwater recharge. This method involves injecting or allowing treated wastewater to seep into aquifers to help replenish groundwater supplies and increase the availability of fresh water for various usage purposes. Additionally, recycling treated wastewater reduces discharge into rivers and other surface water bodies reducing pollution levels and supporting the restoration of ecosystems. However, this solution comes with challenges. Ensuring wastewater is thoroughly treated before it reaches aquifers is crucial to prevent contamination. This approach is not only enhances water availability but also contributes to pollution reduction and aquifer recovery. Achieving these outcomes requires advanced treatment technologies, rigorous monitoring systems, and robust regulatory measures. This research indicates that only 0.02% (7 km2) of Jordan’s total area is suitable for groundwater recharge. This underscores the importance of focusing efforts on these limited zones to address the country’s urgent water needs effectively.