The World Bank Group has released its flagship report, “Scaling Water Reuse: A Tipping Point for Municipal and Industrial Use,” emphasizing the urgent need to invest in water treatment and reuse. The report highlights how treated water can provide fit-for-purpose supply for both municipal and industrial applications, unlocking a sustainable and valuable resource that remains largely underutilized today.
According to the report, with targeted investments and supportive regulatory frameworks, potable and industrial water reuse could increase eight-fold by 2040, reaching 430 million cubic meters per day. This volume would represent roughly one-quarter of current freshwater withdrawals for municipal use, demonstrating the transformative potential of scaling water reuse.
Water reuse is presented as a critical strategy to address growing water insecurity. By treating and reusing water, cities and industries can reduce pollution, conserve freshwater sources, and access new financing opportunities, creating a pathway toward more resilient and sustainable water management.