Singapore’s experience with reclaimed water: NEWater

NEWater, Singapore’s reclaimed water, has enabled Singapore to sustainably meet its growing water demand despite limited land for water catchment and storage. While technology provided this water reuse solution, strong political will, good governance and effective public engagement were key to Singapore’s success in supplying NEWater for indirect potable use and direct nonpotable use. A multiple-barrier process including dual-membrane filtration and UV disinfection, complemented by a strict operating philosophy and comprehensive water quality management programme, ensures reliable delivery of good-quality NEWater even as the supply capacity expands.