Harbin has issued a mechanism to encourage using recycled water and urged for better management and protection of recycled water resources, according to the Harbin government website.

According to the mechanism, recycled water refers to undrinkable water that can be reused in life and industry after disposal.

The mechanism stipulates that water sources of the electroplate, chemical and printing and dyeing industries cannot be reused. Other water can also not be used, including radioactive wastewater discharged by medical institutions.

The mechanism also advises the building of more wastewater treatment plants and a recycled water system.