Blue Planet Group

Overview

The Blue Planet Group, students from the University of Duhok, partnered with UNICEF to investigate greywater recycling (wastewater from sinks, showers, laundry, etc.) as a sustainable solution to water scarcity in Duhok.

What We Did

• Surveyed 50 participants from households, hospitals, car washes, and fire stations
• Conducted focus groups and interviews with farmers and educators
• Evaluated four treatment methods: physical, mechanical, biological, and chemical

Key Findings

• 53% had heard of greywater recycling
• 85% supported greywater reuse, mainly for garden irrigation (56%) and toilet flushing (33%)
• Top benefits: cost savings, water conservation, and environmental protection
• Main concerns: affordability (41% unsure), safety, and need for filtration guarantees
• Preferred awareness methods: social campaigns (45%), seminars, workshops, and government outreach

Team Recommendations

• Raise awareness via media, schools, and community workshops
• Provide subsidies and incentives to support household adoption
• Develop national greywater regulations and integrate into new building codes
• Promote low-cost filtration technology
• Expand Duhok’s wastewater treatment plant (currently 85% complete)
• Engage local communities in training and monitoring

Conclusion

There is strong community interest in greywater recycling in Duhok. With the right education, incentives, and infrastructure, greywater reuse can significantly reduce water stress and contribute to sustainable urban development.