1s7: Effects of treated wastewater irrigation on soil quality

Abstract

Available freshwater is a limited resource worldwide, especially under a growing
population and climate change. Wastewater reuse for irrigation is increasing globally,
because of its potential to contribute to sustainable agriculture and circular economy. The
use of treated wastewater (TWW) can decrease the pressure on freshwater resources,
and it adds nutrients to the soil which may be beneficial for crop growth. However, its
use on agricultural land can lead to soil contamination, salinization and structure
degradation. In Flanders, Belgium, there is a high risk of water scarcity during drought
events, but TWW irrigation is hardly used. Especially salinity problems associated with
TWW irrigation on soil structure and water infiltration have not been studied so far in
Flanders. This study, therefore, aims to investigate the effects of TWW irrigation on soil
physical quality in Flanders, Belgium.