Whitewater, greywater and blackwater: an introduction
FRIDAY 2ND FEBRUARY 2024
For most of us, being able to turn on the tap and have clean running water at our fingertips is something we take for granted. But there’s a lot more that goes into water supply than you might think.
In fact, when it comes to commercial water supply, it’s important to take note of water in all its forms. Let’s take a closer look.
Whitewater: uncovering untapped potential
What is it?
Whitewater is often overlooked, yet it holds significant potential for businesses. It refers to the naturally occurring water from sources like rain, rivers, and streams. It is, as the name suggests, clean and safe to drink. Unlike greywater and blackwater, whitewater is not classed as a form of waste water.
How to manage it
For businesses in the UK, harnessing whitewater can be a game changer. Capturing water from natural sources gives you more flexibility and independence, as it can be used for non-potable purposes such as irrigation, cooling systems, and even in some manufacturing processes. This not only reduces the demand on the mains water supply but also lowers water bills.
Greywater: recycling and reusing
What is it?
Greywater is wastewater generated from non-toilet plumbing systems such as sinks, washing machines, and showers. It can contain soap and other dirt and debris but hasn’t come into contact with organic matter like human or animal waste. When utilised properly, greywater can act as a valuable resource for businesses looking to recycle water.
How to manage it
While it is not safe for human consumption, with proper treatment greywater can be used for toilet flushing, landscaping, and in cooling towers. UK businesses adopting greywater systems can reduce waste and significantly cut their water usage, all while contributing to environmental sustainability and cost savings.
Blackwater: understanding and safe management
What is it?
Blackwater is wastewater from toilets, containing organic waste like food particles, human waste, and pathogens. It requires extensive treatment before it can be safely released or reused, as it can contain harmful bacteria or viruses. Heavily contaminated water can also come from natural disasters like floods, during which rainwater may mix with overflowing sewer water.
How to manage it
For businesses, proper blackwater management may be required for health and environmental reasons. Advanced treatment technologies are available that can turn blackwater into a resource for energy generation or even safe water for non-potable uses, although this is less common in the UK. Like greywater, separate draining systems allow for blackwater to be dealt with safely.
Taking steps towards better business water management
Finding the right business water supplier for your organisation can help you make the most of your commercial water supply, highlighting areas where you can save, reuse, and recycle your water usage in order to meet financial and sustainability goals.
To find the right business water supplier, look at both the services they offer and the prices they charge, as well as other factors like sustainability practices, regulatory compliance, and customer reviews.
Understanding the distinctions between and uses for whitewater, greywater and blackwater is essential for businesses aiming to improve their water sustainability and efficiency. Putting this knowledge to good use, with the help of an effective commercial water supplier, impacts not just costs but also your business’s environmental footprint.
Get in touch with Everflow today
Looking for a sustainable water supply for your business? Get in touch with Everflow today to find out how we can support your organisation.