RAINWATER HARVESTING

Rainwater harvesting is collecting the run-off from a structure or other impervious

surface in order to store it for later use. Traditionally, this involves harvesting the rain from
a roof. The rain will collect in gutters that channel the water into downspouts and then into
some sort of storage vessel. Rainwater collection systems can be as simple as collecting
rain in a rain barrel or as elaborate as harvesting rainwater into large cisterns to supply your
entire household demand.
THE VARIABLES:

• RAINWATER - Rainwater is a relatively clean and absolutely free source of

water that can be use to lessen the water consumption in an specific area.
• WATER CONSUMPTION – One of the most effective ways to conserve
water and reduce consumption is using a rainwater harvesting system, it can
save many gallons of water that can help not only the consumer and but also its
environment.
• SUSTAINABLE – Using Rainwater harvesting systems can be employed as
simple and effective methods that promotes environmental friendly innovation.
• EMERGENCIES - While rainwater can be a perfect primary water source for
many uses and situations, it is also a great backup water supply for emergency
situations.
• COMMUNITIES - For communities that rely on imported water to supply
THE BENEFITS OF RAINWATER HARVESTING IN THE their needs, collecting rainwater that falls naturally in the community can
PROPOSED PROJECT reduce the need for imported water.

• You have total control over your water supply (ideal for cities with
water restrictions)
• It is socially acceptable and environmentally responsible
• It promotes self-sufficiency and helps conserve water
• Rainwater is better for landscape plants and gardens because it is not
chlorinated
• It reduces stormwater runoff from homes and businesses
• It can solve the drainage problems on your property while providing
you with free water It uses simple technologies that are inexpensive and
easy to maintain
• It can be used as a main source of water or as a back up source to wells
and municipal water
CONCLUSION:
Rainwater harvesting is an important water supply option in salinity affected
coastal areas, as well in areas suffering from ground and surface water
contamination. The storage tank is the most expensive and critical component
of a RWHS (Rainwater Harvesting) ; it also dictates the volume and time
reliability of a RWHS (Rainwater Harvesting). Since catchment (i.e., roof)
area and rainfall intensity vary widely, it is difficult to estimate the optimum
tank size for a RWHS (Rainwater Harvesting) in a particular area and
estimate its reliability. A software/tool has been developed for estimation of
optimum tank size and to assess its reliability for any area, based on rainfall
pattern, catchment size and characteristics and water demands in an area.

RABUTIN, DEXTER M. AREMETH / ARC 153