Work

Water Supply, Sanitation, and Irrigation in Vega Alta (Murcia, Spain)

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Climate change is projected to significantly reduce water availability, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions, which makes hydrological planning essential given the increasing competition for water resources. Inefficient consumption patterns exacerbate water depletion and highlight the importance of water quality management. Promoting sustainable practices, reducing consumption, and enhancing water recycling contribute to a more resilient approach. The aim of thIS study is to evaluate the reuse of reclaimed water in the Vega Alta region, which accounts for almost 15% of the total water mix (about 99 hm3/year) as it reuses 92.52% of the treated wastewater, most of which is pumped to irrigation areas targeted for consolidation, also creating new landscapes. These figures place the Region of Murcia as the leading autonomous community in Spain for water reuse, although challenges remain regarding water volumes and the associated costs, investment, and maintenance.

Source: Urban Science

DOI: 10.3390/urbansci9090345

Authors: José M. Gómez-Espín, Miguel B. Bernabé-Crespo, Encarnación Gil-Meseguer, Ramón Martínez-Medina, José M. Gómez-Gil

Institutions: Universidad de Murcia, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, University of Córdoba

Language: English

Topic: Wastewater Treatment and Reuse

Subfield: Waste Management and Disposal

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Clean water and sanitation, Responsible consumption and production, Climate action, Sustainable cities and communities

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,930