Public perceptions on reusing treated wastewater in agricultural irrigation: A systematic review

Treated wastewater (TWW) reuse for agricultural irrigation offers a promising solution to water scarcity by providing an alternative water source and reducing dependence on conventional freshwater resources. This systematic review explores public knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions toward the use of TWW in agriculture, with a focus on sociocultural influences. The target population includes residents, citizens, consumers, and university students, whose acceptance is critical for the success of reuse initiatives. Following the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), the review looked at important studies found in February 2024 from sources like Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. The findings reveal that public knowledge about TWW reuse varies significantly, with online platforms and media serving as the primary sources of information. Acceptance largely hinges on perceived safety, trust in governing authorities, the quality of agricultural products, and cost comparisons with freshwater. While the public generally supports TWW use for non-edible crops, such as fodder and ornamental plants, resistance increases when it is applied to edible crop production. Despite these concerns, transparent communication, robust safety assurances, and targeted public education campaigns could strengthen trust and foster broader acceptance. TWW reuse holds significant potential to enhance agricultural sustainability and address regional water challenges.