Quantitative and qualitative assessment of greywater for water demand management in Al Ain

Water demand reduction and source diversification are the two most vital tools for the security of urban water supply. Recycling and reuse of greywater for non-potable end uses can be an effective alternative for the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The objective of this study is to assess greywater quantity and quality in the Al Ain city of UAE. About 100 homes across Al Ain were surveyed to estimate water consumption and greywater quantity. Randomly selected 11 houses were investigated to explore greywater characteristics. The average greywater generation rate was estimated to be 192 litre per capita per day, which is about 69% of the average internal water consumption. The generated greywater originates from shower (49%), ablution (18%), laundry (10%) and wash basin (23%). Greywater from all sources was found to be alkaline in nature. Laundry greywater was found to be highly deteriorated. While ablution greywater was found to be the least deteriorated, the presence of coliform bacteria was identified. Quantitatively it was shown that generated greywater is sufficient to fulfill the non-potable water demand. Qualitatively it was observed that shower and ablution greywater have significant potential for reuse. Outcomes from the study can be utilized for the selection of appropriate treatment technologies in greywater recycling and reuse