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Local conditions and the economic feasibility of urban wastewater recycling in irrigated agriculture: Lessons from a stochastic regional analysis in California

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  • Ami Reznik
  • Ariel Dinar

Abstract

Using treated wastewater for crop irrigation could help mitigate water scarcity. We examine the feasibility of this strategy focusing on the role of local conditions, such as the costs and benefits of alternative wastewater discharge options, and adaptability of agricultural production to water quantity and quality changes. Our approach accounts for uncertainties in the availability of natural water resources and regulatory constraints concerning wastewater discharge. Our analysis of a region in Southern California finds reuse for crop irrigation unwarranted; however, utilizing that practice to support agriculture in the region is economically inexpensive. A sensitivity analysis reveals that diversified agriculture and limitations on the safe and remote discharge of treated wastewater are strong incentives for reuse in agricultural irrigation.

Suggested Citation

  • Ami Reznik & Ariel Dinar, 2022. "Local conditions and the economic feasibility of urban wastewater recycling in irrigated agriculture: Lessons from a stochastic regional analysis in California," Applied Economic Perspectives and Policy, John Wiley & Sons, vol. 44(4), pages 2115-2130, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:wly:apecpp:v:44:y:2022:i:4:p:2115-2130
    DOI: 10.1002/aepp.13198
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Dawson, C.J. & Hilton, J., 2011. "Fertiliser availability in a resource-limited world: Production and recycling of nitrogen and phosphorus," Food Policy, Elsevier, vol. 36(Supplemen), pages 14-22, January.
    2. Ami Reznik & Ariel Dinar & Francesc Hernández-Sancho, 2019. "Treated Wastewater Reuse: An Efficient and Sustainable Solution for Water Resource Scarcity," Environmental & Resource Economics, Springer;European Association of Environmental and Resource Economists, vol. 74(4), pages 1647-1685, December.
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