Article

The Bahr El Baqar wastewater plant in Egypt recycles 5.6 million cubic meters of water daily for agriculture, yet many similar facilities in the MENA region are underperforming or inactive. The region faces severe water scarcity, necessitating sustainable solutions.

Wastewater Treatment (WWT) technologies vary, with conventional methods being energy-intensive and nature-based systems requiring more land but less energy. Projects like ReWater, launched by the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) from 2018 to 2022, aim to enhance water reuse in Egypt, Jordan, and Lebanon by addressing cultural and regulatory barriers.

ReWater+ has since expanded this initiative, collaborating with various partners to assess costs and impacts. The As-Samra plant in Jordan utilizes biogas for 80% of its energy needs, while the SafeAgroMENA project promotes safe wastewater reuse for farmers in several MENA countries. Digital innovations are also enhancing decision-making in wastewater management across the region.