The Perception of Guyanese to Urban Wastewater Reuse

Abstract

Support of the public is critical for wastewater reuse projects to succeed. The findings of an online questionnaire-style survey conducted with 117 participants to measure the public's opinion toward potential urban reuse opportunities in Guyana are examined in this article. Support for and resistance to 13 reuse options are examined in this article. Wastewater reuse for irrigation of agricultural crops, public park irrigation, sidewalk landscape irrigation, cooling purpose in industries and firefighting received the highest support ranging from 73% to 84%. With the exception of reuse for irrigation for agricultural crops, participants generally preferred low-contact reuse options. Wastewater reuse for potable water, commercial launderette and discharge to surface water bodies received the lowest support ranging to 23% to 41%. The public, in general, may be reluctant to accept any wastewater reuse that is directly or indirectly tied to humans. Prior to the implementation of any wastewater reuse project in Guyana, public campaigns should focus on disseminating information about wastewater treatment, technologies, health issues, the environmental impact of water reuse, and create good public opinion, as these factors help to determine individuals endorsement to reuse projects.