Barcelona is making a significant move towards sustainability with a new regulation focused on recycling greywater. The Barcelona city government has approved a draft of this regulation, which will be reviewed before being finalized in a public meeting.

This plan follows a community engagement process where about 570 residents shared their ideas and feedback. In total, over 150 suggestions were received, and around 85% were apparently included in this new regulation.

What is Greywater and How Will It Be Used?

Greywater is the water that comes from our sinks, showers, and baths. With the new regulation, any new residential buildings with more than 16 units or those undergoing major renovations will need to install systems to collect and treat this water. Instead of going to waste, this recycled water can be used for flushing toilets.

By recycling greywater, Barcelona aims to reduce the use of drinking water in homes by 33%. This could save the city about 136,000 cubic meters of drinking water each year. For families, this could mean saving up to €185 on water bills annually.

Who Needs to Follow the Rules?

The regulation provides clear guidelines for recycling greywater safely. Here’s who will need to comply:

• New residential buildings with 16 or more units.
• Major renovations that significantly change the building.
• Any buildings that use 730 cubic meters of water or more each year.

Certain facilities, like hospitals and schools that already use treated water, won’t be required to follow these rules.

A Step Towards Climate Resilience

This new regulation is part of Barcelona’s broader climate plan to prepare for water shortages, especially given the current drought. It builds on existing rules where greywater recycling is already mandatory for new buildings.

Laia Bonet, the deputy mayor for Urban Planning and Ecological Transition, stressed the city’s commitment to facing future water shortages. She noted that residents are already saving more water than recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO).

What’s Next for the Regulation?

After the initial approval, there will be a chance for the public to express any concerns before the Commission on Ecology, Urban Planning, Mobility, and Housing reviews it again. If everything goes smoothly, the regulation could be finalized in early 2025. Once published in the Official Gazette of the Province of Barcelona, it will take effect two years later, allowing time for everyone to prepare.

With this new focus on recycling greywater, Barcelona is taking important steps towards sustainable living, encouraging responsible water use, and addressing the challenges of climate change.

As Barcelona moves ahead with the greywater recycling plan, we want to hear what you think! What’s your take on this idea?

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