Rainwater harvesting is the collection and storage of rainwater for future use. This involves capturing rainwater from roofs and other surfaces, directing it to a storage system, and then using it for purposes like watering plants, washing, or for non-potable uses in a sustainable manner. It helps to reduce reliance on mains water supply and conserve water resources.
There are two types or rainwater haversting. Rooftop rainwater harvesting and drain harvesting. In rooftop rainwater harvesting, we use the water collected on rooftops instead of letting it go down the drain. We can also use water collected in dugout ponds, underground vessels etc. Drain harvesting involves letting water collected in roadside drains go straight to the ground. But this water has to be treated before use as it may contain bird faeces, germs and other pollutants.
Rainwater harvesting system is collection of rainwater from the surface which directly receives rainfall. It can be a paved area like a terrace or courtyard of a building, or an unpaved area like a lawn or open ground.Following links helps to understand what is rainwater harvesting and how to implement them successfully in your apartment.http://www.reddit.com/r/reddit.com/comments/avm9y/rainwater_harvesting_an_efficient_water_solution/
Rainwater harvesting is done by collecting and storing rainwater from rooftops or other surfaces in tanks or barrels. The collected rainwater can be used for various purposes like watering plants, flushing toilets, or even for drinking after proper filtration and treatment. Gutters and downspouts are typically used to direct the rainwater into the storage containers.
Rainwater harvesting can be categorized into several types, including rooftop harvesting, where rainwater is collected from building roofs; surface runoff harvesting, which captures water from land surfaces; and subsurface harvesting, involving the collection of groundwater recharge through techniques like percolation tanks. Additionally, there are direct and indirect methods, with direct systems involving the direct use of collected rainwater and indirect systems focusing on groundwater replenishment. Each type serves specific needs and can be tailored to local conditions and water requirements.
India is a country where rainwater harvesting is widely applied, especially in regions facing water scarcity. The practice involves capturing and storing rainwater for various purposes like irrigation, drinking, and recharging groundwater. It has gained popularity due to its effectiveness in sustainable water management.
Rainwater harvesting is important because it can help alleviate water scarcity issues by capturing and storing rainwater for later use. It helps to reduce reliance on traditional water sources like rivers and groundwater, which are often overexploited. Additionally, it can reduce urban flooding and erosion by slowing down the runoff of rainwater.
Pioneering work in rainwater harvesting is often attributed to various cultures and individuals throughout history. However, modern advancements can be significantly credited to figures like Dr. S. S. S. K. Chandrasekaran in India, who promoted its use for sustainable water management. Additionally, organizations like the Rainwater Harvesting Association have helped to popularize and implement rainwater harvesting techniques globally. Various local and indigenous practices also play a crucial role in the development of this field.
Examples of services can be like waitresses, cleaning services.
Large buckets of water is the perfect way of harvesting rain water. Try something like a lightweight barrel or a large plastic bin. Coolers can also be placed out while harvesting rain water.
Traditional methods of rainwater harvesting like 'the rooftop method' are becoming popular in India. In Gendathur village, Mysore, about 200 households have adopted the rooftop rainwater harvesting method, thereby making the village rich in rainwater. The state of Tamil Nadu has made it compulsory for all the houses to have rooftop rainwater harvesting structures. Defaulters are severely punished.
India Water Portal recommends several effective methods for rainwater harvesting to address water scarcity and promote sustainable water management. These methods include: Rooftop Rainwater Harvesting: Description: This method involves collecting rainwater from the roof of buildings and directing it through gutters and downspouts into storage tanks or recharge pits. It is widely used in urban areas for both domestic and commercial purposes. Surface Runoff Harvesting: Description: In this method, rainwater runoff from surfaces like roads, parks, and open fields is collected and stored in ponds, tanks, or reservoirs. It helps in recharging groundwater levels and can be used for irrigation and livestock. Groundwater Recharge: Description: This involves directing rainwater to underground aquifers through percolation pits, trenches, or wells. It helps in replenishing groundwater levels and maintaining the water table. Check Dams and Nala Bunds: Description: These are small barriers built across seasonal streams (nalas) to hold rainwater and allow it to percolate into the ground, increasing groundwater recharge and supporting local water needs. By implementing these methods, India Water Portal aims to promote efficient water management, reduce dependency on external water sources, and enhance the sustainability of local water resources. Click to Know More: indiawaterportal org/topics/rainwater-harvesting