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El Paso's approach centers around the concept of direct potable reuse, often met with skepticism and public resistance in other regions. The city is poised to become the first major U.S. city to implement a completely closed-loop water cycle, where wastewater from homes and industries is purified and returned directly to the tap. The process begins at existing wastewater treatment plants, such as the Fred Hervey Water Reclamation Plant, which handles both wastewater treatment and water reuse.
From Waste to Drinkable Water
The treatment process involves multiple, rigorous steps to ensure safety and quality:
- Initial Treatment: Solid waste is filtered out; biological organisms metabolize organic matter; chlorine disinfects the water to eliminate viruses and pathogens.