Harnessing Recycled Wastewater for Sustainable Agriculture: A Balancing Act Between Benefits and Risks

ABSTRACT The global water crisis demands innovative irrigation approaches, with recycled wastewater presenting a compelling yet complex solution. In terms of a sustainable water source and potential nutrient advantages, recycled wastewater irrigation requires a comprehensive understanding of its long‐term impacts on intricate soil ecosystems. This review critically analyses the current state of knowledge regarding recycled wastewater irrigation, focusing on its influence on soil physicochemical properties, the dynamic responses of microbial communities and potential environmental trade‐offs. The findings suggest that recycled wastewater irrigation can increase soil fertility by supplying essential nutrients, but it also poses risks such as salinity buildup and heavy metal accumulation, which require careful management. The interplay among recycled wastewater constituents, soil characteristics and microbial adaptations is investigated, highlighting the delicate balance between maximising agricultural benefits and minimising ecological risks. Innovative mitigation strategies are explored, and critical research gaps are identified, which are essential for optimising recycled wastewater irrigation practices and ensuring a sustainable future for agriculture.