Study on reusing wastewater in agriculture launched by SEI and the Ministry of Environment of Moldova

This forward-thinking initiative, led by SEI and conducted by national experts, aims to support Moldova’s forthcoming decision on whether and how to implement the use of reclaimed wastewater for agricultural irrigation, in accordance with the Regulation (EU) 2020/741 of the European Parliament and of the Council on minimum requirements for water reuse.

The study, taking place from October 2024 to December 2025, is comprised of two phases: an initial screening, followed by an in-depth evaluation. It is part of the Green Agenda for Armenia, Georgia, Moldova, and Ukraine project, funded by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida). The study will be conducted in close cooperation with both the Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry of Moldova, along with other national stakeholders.

Moldova is one of the most climate-vulnerable countries in Europe. As climate change and water scarcity are increasingly pressing issues, the study will explore the use of treated wastewater as an alternative source for irrigation. Optimal methods for utilizing this water will be analyzed that consider quality, available quantity and soil compatibility, as well as associated risks and advantages. Additionally, the study will assess the costs of implementing water treatment systems.

At the launch event, representatives from the Swedish Embassy in Moldova, the Ministry of Environment, and the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry gathered with SEI and national experts to set the stage for the study. Participants endorsed the study, provided recommendations to consider in the coming period and identified the actors involved in this process.

Gheorghe Hajder, the State Secretary at the Ministry of Environment, highlighted the importance of sustainable water resource management as a top priority:

Victoria Gratii, Chief of the Policy Direction for Integrated Management of Water Resources at Moldova’s Ministry of Environment, added:

“Reusing treated wastewater in agriculture can address water scarcity when other measures are insufficient; however, a range of factors must be considered. We are confident that the newly launched study will offer support and recommendations for the correct implementation of EU Regulation 2020/741, which relates to the minimum requirements for water reuse,” she continued.

Thomas Alveteg, the Deputy Head of the Development Cooperation Section and Analyst at the Swedish Embassy in Chisinau, welcomed the inter-ministerial collaboration, emphasizing the importance of inter-institutional cooperation in promoting viable solutions for water reuse in the context of alarming climate change and water scarcity for irrigation.

Arno Rosemarin, Senior Research Fellow at SEI, said:

“Reusing wastewater could help address irrigation water scarcity, but upgrading treatment plants to meet agricultural standards presents a challenge,” Rosemarin concluded.