A fourth-year psychology student at Southern Cross University, Peta Callaghan, has found that overwhelmingly people are not prepared to use recycled water for drinking, showering, bathing, cooking or washing clothes.

“What I found was that people have really strong images of sewerage and chemicals,” Peta said.

Her study included surveys distributed to university students, general members of the community and members of an environmental group.

“There were no differences in the responses from the different groups. The environmental cause is a big one, but it’s not enough to make people want to drink recycled water,” she said.

“In order for the introduction of recycled water to be successful there will need to be a turn-around in public support. If there is going to be an implementation strategy it will need to focus on promoting recycled water as a ‘safe’ option.” 

Ms Callaghan's research was presented at Southern Cross University's psychology student's annual conference on 21 September 2007.