Unconventional water is a critical component of regional water resources allocation. Enhancing its unconventional utilization plays an essential role in augmenting water supply

reducing pollutant discharge

and supporting the implementation of comprehensive water conservation strategies. In practice

the utilization of unconventional water varies significantly across regions with different water resource endowments. This study examines the characteristics of unconventional water utilization in four representative area types within the Taihu Lake Basin: island areas

highly urbanized areas

water environmentally sensitive zones

and water-receiving areas of inter-basin water diversion projects. Focusing on existing challenges and guided by the objective of improving utilization efficiency

this paper proposes countermeasures and suggestions to enhance the quality and effectiveness of unconventional water utilization in each type of region. The findings aim to provide reference and guidance for advancing unconventional water practices in water-abundant areas across South China.