Dubbo City Council’s Works and Services Committee has endorsed a recommendation by Director Environmental Services Melissa Watkins to adopt the Greywater/Recycled Water Reuse Policy, giving residents the opportunity to use recycled greywater in their homes.
The Greywater/Recycled Water Reuse Policy is an action included in the 2006-2009 Dubbo ALIVE program, allowing residential greywater reuse within the sewered urban area with the approval of Council. Residents will also be able to comment on the plan before it is given final approval.
Works and Services Committee chairman Allan Smith said there are several advantages to using recycled greywater in the home.
“The recycling of greywater reduces the pressures on drinking water supplies caused by drought and urban growth,” he said.
“Many people are already using greywater from their laundries by using a greywater diversion device. Council is in the process of approving a plan for Greywater Treatment Systems, where greywater is actually reused in the home.”
“Uses for treated greywater might include garden irrigation, toilet flushing, car washing and laundries.”
Mr Smith said Greywater Treatment Systems will require Council approval before their installation to ensure health and safety measures are being met.
“There are significant advantages to recycling greywater but the Greywater Treatment System must be a Council approved system so it can meet health and safety standards,” he said.
If adopted, the Greywater/Recycled Water Reuse Policy will go on public exhibition for 28 days.
MEDIA CONTACT: Director Environmental Services Melissa Watkins on 6801 4000.