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Reusing treated wastewater for agricultural irrigation: Chemical risks and local-scale mitigation strategies
Summary
Using treated wastewater to irrigate crops can save fresh water and reduce fertilizer use, but this review of existing research shows it can also introduce heavy metals, harmful "forever chemicals," and even microplastics into our food supply. The good news: farmers can lower these risks with practical steps like treating soil and water on-site, choosing lower-risk crops, and timing water use carefully—though bigger, coordinated solutions are still needed to make this practice consistently safe.
Crop irrigation with treated wastewater (TWW) is practiced globally and can reduce both freshwater and fertilizer needs. However, many contaminants are present in TWW that may harm human and environmental health. These include high salinity, heavy metals, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, micro- and nanoplastics, and more. Additionally, weather conditions and household and industrial practices impact TWW quality resulting in high variation in TWW composition. This review explores the impact and variability of non-biological contaminants in TWW irrigation as well as contaminant management strategies. While centralized, collaborative solutions are ultimately needed to ensure TWW quality, risk reduction strategies can be used on farms such as onsite soil and water treatment, selection of low-risk crops, and selective timing for the collection and use of TWW. Though recent advances have laid a strong foundation for safer and sustainable implementation, continued efforts are needed to optimize TWW irrigation practices.