6.4.1

Water Reuse Policy

The University of Thessaly (UTh) is committed to promoting the sustainable and responsible use of water resources across all its facilities.

This policy establishes a framework for the reuse of treated water from campus operations to reduce potable water demand, enhance resource efficiency, and protect the environment.

Purpose

The primary objectives of this policy are to:

Encourage the reuse of treated wastewater and other non-potable water sources for suitable applications;

Reduce freshwater consumption and dependence on municipal water supplies;

Minimize environmental impact by decreasing wastewater discharge;

Ensure all water reuse practices comply with Greek and EU legislation and public health standards;

Support the implementation of SDG 6 (Clean Water), SDG 12 (Sustainable Production and Consumption), and SDG 13 (Climate Action).

Legal and Technical Framework

This policy aligns with:

Law 3199/2003 on water management,

Presidential Decree 51/2007 (transposing Directive 2000/60/EC – EU Water Framework Directive),

Joint Ministerial Decision 145116/2011 on the reuse of treated wastewater,

EU Regulation 2020/741 on minimum requirements for water reuse,

Law 4042/2012 on environmental protection and resource efficiency,

and the University of Thessaly Environmental Sustainability Plan.

Scope

This policy applies to all:

University campuses and research facilities,

Agricultural experimental fields, sports complexes, and landscaped areas,

Projects involving water treatment, irrigation, cleaning, and cooling systems,

Staff, contractors, and researchers engaged in water management operations.

Key Provisions

Treated Wastewater Reuse

Treated effluent from University wastewater systems shall be reused, where feasible, for irrigation of green areas, agricultural experiments, toilet flushing, or non-potable cleaning.

All reuse applications must meet the quality standards defined in KYA 145116/2011 and EU Regulation 2020/741.

Reuse operations shall be monitored to ensure microbiological and chemical safety.

Rainwater Harvesting

New and existing buildings should include rainwater collection systems for use in irrigation, cleaning, or cooling.

Storage and distribution systems must be designed according to building and public health standards.

Greywater Systems

Facilities such as dormitories, laboratories, and sports centers are encouraged to install greywater recycling systems for non-potable reuse.

Separate plumbing and signage shall ensure no cross-connection with potable systems.

Monitoring and Reporting

The Technical Services Department shall monitor reused water volumes and quality, maintaining records for compliance.

Annual sustainability reports will include data on water reuse rates and savings achieved.

Research and Education

The University of Thessaly promotes research on water reuse technologies, treatment innovations, and environmental safety.

Educational activities will raise awareness of safe water reuse practices among students and staff.

Health and Safety

All reused water systems must include clear labeling, backflow prevention, and safety signage.

Governance

Responsible Authority: Rector.

Operational Oversight: Technical Services Department.

Scientific Oversight: Department of Civil Engineering and Department of Agriculture, Crop Production and Rural Environment.

Review

This policy shall be reviewed every three years, or earlier in response to new regulations or technological advances in water reuse.

Through this policy, the University of Thessaly reaffirms its commitment to closing the water loop, protecting natural resources, and building a sustainable and resilient campus ecosystem.