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Alternative Water Supplies
With growing concern of lacking water resources, there is a need to seek alternative water supplies.
The State Government has released a discussion paper, A Framework for Alternative Urban Water Supplies, which looks at how Victorians can make use of alternative water supplies safely and sustainably. For more information and guidelines for alternative water supplies, go to the Victorian EPA website (www.epa.vic.gov.au).
Rainwater
Rainwater is a possible alternative water resource that can supplement potable water for some uses.
Monash Council installed two 45,000 rainwater tanks to supply water at the Works Administration Centre. The use of rainwater has supplemented over 930,000 litres of potable water - a significant water conservation project.
Stormwater
Stormwater is a possible alternative water supply. However, there are risks associated with the quality of water found within the stormwater system. Monash Council is currently investigating the opportunities and challenges of stormwater reuse at our public Golf Courses.
For more information, please contact Natalie Atkins 9518 3716.
Grey Water
Grey water consists of non-toilet wastewater including wastewater from showers, baths, spas, hand basins, washing machines, laundry troughs, dishwashers and kitchen sinks. "Blackwater" is toilet water that is contaminated with faeces and urine.
A significant amount of wastewater is generated by households that can be redirected to the garden for watering. However "blackwater" should never be reused nor should water from kitchen sinks and diswashers, or water used to wash soiled nappies.
If using greywater through a diversion system that does not store and treat the water then no permit is required. However consent from Yarra Valley Water or South-East Water needs to be obtained and all works are required to be carried out by a licensed plumber. It is important to ensure that greywater is used correctly as the owner or occupiers of a property may expose themselves to legal liability if a public health hazard, nuisance or environmental hazard is created.
Read more - Rainwater Tanks, Grey Water
If you require further information on reuse options for greywater please go to www.epa.vic.gov.au/Water/Programs/wastewater.asp or contact Council's Environmental Health Unit on 9518 3539 or 9518 3540.
Updated: 20 March 2009
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