Scenarios of reuse of wastewater for irrigation to be developed in Causeni, Cantemir, Cahul settlements of Moldova

Local authorities and experts will develop, with the support of Sweden, scenarios for the reuse of treated wastewater in agricultural land irrigation. The first studies will be developed in the localities of Causeni, Cantemir and Cahul.

The scenarios are being developed under the Green Agenda for Moldova project, funded by Sweden through the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida), the Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI).

"Based on the data collected, we have developed a scenario model based on the regime of precipitation, water requirements of crops and irrigation deficit, in order to identify realistic options for the reuse of treated wastewater. This effort supports the development of a national methodology for the circular management of water resources - a concrete step in adapting to the effects of climate change," said Arno Rosemarin, SEI senior researcher for the study.

The next steps involve developing specific scenarios for each pilot area, including water storage and distribution options; conducting a cost-benefit analysis on the use of treated wastewater in agriculture; assessing environmental and public health risks; continuing to align the national legislative framework with European standards.

SEI experts met representatives of the Ministry of Environment, the Swedish Embassy, and Sida, in order to review progress and identify new opportunities for cooperation. At the same time, an experience exchange workshop with the EU4Green Recovery East initiative aimed to integrate the results into other green transition and climate adaptation programmes.

Through this initiative, Moldova strengthens its capacity to face droughts, protects natural resources and supports the sustainable development of the agro-industrial sector.

Moldova frequently faces drought periods, which directly affect agriculture, the economy and the environment. Droughts cause significant reductions in grain, vegetable and technical crop yields, which can lead to financial losses for farmers and increased food prices.