Water has been described as the twenty-first-century oil. Water shortages, water quality, and water rights are hot-button issues at the local, national, and international levels. Climate change, population growth, and contamination from industry, farms, and human settlements have dramatically impacted water supplies and disrupted natural nutrient cycles. Strategic wastewater management will be a critical tool in protecting this valuable but threatened resource.
Reusing the Resource is a comprehensive guide to using plants to stabilize, clean, filter, and reuse wastewater, while simultaneously eliminating expensive and polluting sewers and septic systems. The book profiles more than thirty successful ecological wastewater recycling systems that save money, protect public and environmental health, and provide plant-based fuel, fiber, construction materials, habitat, and landscapes. It details the pros and cons of various systems and provides tips for designers, regulators, and builders. Case studies include:
• A greenhouse-enclosed wastewater aquaculture system
• A regional wastewater-recycling plant
• A city’s wastewater-treatment wetland
• Graywater planters and more
This book is a must-read for engineers, landscape designers, clean water advocates, and property owners. Packed with practical ideas and featuring beautiful full-color photos and inspiring, easy-to-read information, Reusing the Resource proves that the solution to water pollution is to grow it away!
Carol Steinfeld is a writer, researcher, and program designer who specializes in ecological resource management solutions.
David Del Porto is an ecological planner and consultant with a focus on integrated water conservation, stormwater, and wastewater reuse. Together they have co-authored two books on wastewater management.
