Water used in homes i.e. residential waste water can be recycled and reused for other activities. This used water is known as Gray water and is sourced from water used in sinks, bathtubs, laundry, and dishwashers. Waste water from toilets also known as black water is not included as a source since it contains high levels of nitrogen and pathogens and does not decompose easily. It is advisable not to include water that was used to clean meat or poultry products and water that may be contaminated due to infectious diseases in the gray water recycle system.
Gray water derives its name from the cloudy or hazy color the water gets after usage in household activities. Except as drinking water and for consumption in any other form, gray water can be utilized for a host of other activities such as irrigation, for landscaping in gardens, reuse in toilets, and external washing like car wash etc. From a narrow perspective, gray water does not seem to be an important part of water conservation but on the macro level, it plays a major role in conservation especially in saving large quantities of potable water from being used for irrigation purposes.
Gray water can be used for watering plants in the garden. Plants and soil work towards decomposing gray water and filtering out the contaminants. The plants then absorb the nutrients and biodegradable components that are thus separated. Gray water often contains small amounts of human pathogens, soap residues, and food particles therefore it is advised to use this water for ornamental plants and food plants like citrus trees. The water cannot be used for seedlings, vegetables, and container plants.
Gray water helps to reduce fresh water consumption and ease the strain on water treatment systems and septic tanks. Gray water system consumes less amount of energy for treatment and is a good alternative in places where conventional systems cannot be set-up. It also helps recharge groundwater levels and reclaim lost or wasted nutrients. Although reusable, care has to be taken to avoid human contact with gray water for reasons related to health. Many people have recognized the advantages of gray water and a number of city councils have laws and regulations regarding setting up of gray water systems.
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