Graywater treatment and reuse project:

In the face of climate change, which has led to an enduring drought in Chile for over a decade, it's crucial to find ways to counteract its consequences and acclimate to a new reality, where rainfall is decreasing, and temperatures are rising.

The GWR Project, or Greywater Treatment and Reuse Project, has arisen from a collaborative effort between scientists from three universities in Chile - Universidad de Santiago de Chile (Usach), Universidad del Bío-Bío, and Universidad Andrés Bello. The project's main objective is to decrease the domestic consumption of drinking water by utilizing greywater, while also incorporating technologies that offer thermal and acoustic insulation to homes.

Through membrane technology, capable of removing most pollutants found in graywater, and the use of electrochemistry, the Usach-led team is developing an economically feasible and space-saving solution for graywater treatment and reuse. The team is committed to maintaining technical feasibility and precision throughout this project.

In addition to recycling treated water in toilets, they suggest a sustainable alternative for irrigating roofs and green walls, which offer effective solutions for thermal and acoustic insulation, as well as reducing the urban heat island effect.

The Casa Tecno situated in the Laguna Carén Technology Park will enable testing of integrated systems to scale up sustainable housing solutions, with reduced water and energy consumption, and improved living comfort. The ANID-Ring Project ATE220224 finances The GWR Project that will continue until 2026. During this time, gray water integrated solutions will be developed, dissemination activities will occur, and people will be educated about water conservation at home. Additionally, a collaborative and multidisciplinary platform will be promoted to address the impact of climate change on water resources.