Ministerial Decree No. 185 laying down technical standards on wastewater recycling in compliance with article 26, paragraph 2 of Legislative Decree No. 152 of 11 May 1999.

Act No. 152 of 1999 contains the legislative framework relative to the protection of surface, marine and groundwater against pollution. The present Decree has been adopted by the Ministry of the Environment on the basis of article 26 (2) of that Act, where the adoption of a Regulation is envisaged for the purpose of defining the technical norms relative to the recycling of domestic, industrial and urban wastewater. The fundamental aim pursued is the reduction of the intake of surface and underground waters by reusing water that has already been used. Damages to ecosystems, soil and cultures as well as hygienic and sanitary risks shall be avoided when wastewater recycling is carried out. Article 3 of the Decree specifies the purposes to which recycled wastewater may be destined, including irrigation and industrial uses. The Annex attached lays down detailed minimum quality requirements.