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The Wastewater Treatment and Reuse Plant at Taronga  Zoo was opened in 1996 as part of an original 'Clean Up Australia' initiative.  The primary aim of the Plant is to keep Sydney Harbour clean and healthy while also minimising the volume of fresh water needed for the many activities that are undertaken on a daily basis at the Zoo.

The treatment and reuse plant is currently undergoing major upgrade works including a new stormwater tank, a new micro-filtration unit and process enhancements. Once the upgrade is complete, the system will reclaim up to 100 million litres annually.  This project is supported by the NSW Government's Water Savings Fund, which is now part of the NSW Climate Change Fund.

Where is our recycled water used?

Microfiltration Unit at the Plant Room in the Wastewater Treatment & Reuse Plant- Siemens Memcor XP12L10V 

The four major uses for recycled water at Taronga are:

  • Hosing down of animal exhibits;
  • Exhibit moat filling;
  • Toilet flushing; and
  • Lawn and garden irrigation

What are the benefits of using recycled water?

  • Reduces the dry weather discharge into Sydney Harbour
  • Reduces our reliance on Sydney Water's fresh water supply particularly during water restriction periods;
  • Supports the principles of waste avoidance & resource recovery and 
  • Demonstrates effective water recycling resulting in educational benefits & technology sharing

Taronga Zoo is part of Sydney Water's ‘Every Drop Counts' Business Program. Taronga works with Sydney Water to identify water savings opportunities on-site with the aim of reducing fresh water consumption. The program has been a great success to date and the zoo continually seeks ways to minimise the use of fresh water and optimise the use of recycled water as part of its commitment to sustainable resource use.