Wastewater reuse is now not only necessary and possible but more surprisingly is affordable and cost effective. Particularly in the United States but increasingly in Europe, the implementation of innovative techniques such as microfiltration are enabling water starved regions to procure a solution to an ever increasing demand for water. The reuse of sewage and poor quality surface waters should be considered as an economic alternative before major infrastructure investments take place. Significant environmental and economic benefits can be derived through the co-operation of industrial water users and municipal water utilities. Microporous membranes are now a cost effective, reliable and proven method for the treatment of waste and contaminated waters in most parts of the world.