# Examining the perceptions and permissions of reusing treated wastewater in a region facing water scarcity

## TL;DR

This study explores public perceptions of using treated wastewater in Al-Kut, Iraq, revealing awareness of water scarcity and willingness to support reuse for agriculture and industry.

## Contribution

The study provides new insights into public acceptance and factors influencing wastewater reuse in a water-scarce region.

## Key findings

- 90.6% of respondents are aware of the water crisis, while 9.4% deny or are uncertain about it.
- 88% of participants are implementing water conservation strategies and support wastewater treatment plant installation.
- A statistically significant relationship exists between sex, income, and acceptance of wastewater reuse.

## Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the public’s perspective on the utilisation of reclaimed water in Al-Kut, Iraq. Accordingly, a survey consisting of multiple-choice questions was designed to gather demographic information and assess the participants’ views and knowledge about water resources and wastewater reuse. The replies of 507 Iraqis, consisting of 326 males and 181 females, were analysed using a T, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and Chi-square tests. The study’s findings indicate that 90.6% of the people are conscious of the issue of water crisis problem, whereas the others 9.4% either deny its existence (6.6%) or are uncertain about it (2.8%). Based on the survey questions, a high percentage (about 41%) of respondents have no idea that there is a water crisis. Nevertheless, the majority (88%) of individuals are implementing strategies to preserve water and are open to incurring additional charges for the installation of centralised wastewater treatment plants in the area. Many individuals support the utilisation of reclaimed water for agricultural and industrial applications. The findings also indicated a statistically significant relationship between sex, income, and acceptance of wastewater reuse. Incentives for reusing treated wastewater and opposition against it were ranked by the respondents.

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1038/s41598-025-24308-w.