According to recent data, Australia has reported severe rainfall deficiencies from 1st April 2020 to 7th September 2021. Drought conditions prevail in Capricornia, Burnett districts, and central districts of Queensland.
If you live in a region with rainfall deficiencies, you should consider Rainwater Harvesting (RWH) to provide a reliable water supply during drought.
What Is RWH?
RWH refers to the technique of collecting rainwater, storing it, and distributing it for multiple uses. The collected water can be directed to the borewell or used directly.
Who Can Use RWH?
Anyone who faces acute water shortage or lives in a region which experiences frequent drought can use Rainwater Harvesting. People can also use the RWH technique to increase groundwater levels.
Why Should You Implement RWH?
Rainwater is the chief source of freshwater. According to recent data, 80% of the Australian regions receive less than 60 mm rainfall annually. The short periods of high-intensity rains allow the rainwater to flow fast and significantly permeate the ground, less. The RWH technique collects rainwater and ensures enough time to let water seep into the ground. This collected water ultimately recharges underground water levels.
Where Can You Store Rainwater?
You can collect rainwater in large rainwater tanks that can be installed on your property. The rainwater can be collected from your house roofs and diverted to the tanks.
Where Can You Implement RWH?
RWH can be implemented in homes, apartments, schools, societies, commercial premises, and institutions where an open parchment area can collect rainwater. Australian farmers can also implement RWH in their lands and use them for cultivation.
Is RWH Only Feasible for New Buildings?
Even existing buildings can implement RWH by making changes to the plumbing system. One primary requirement of this technique is enough space to install a rainwater tank to collect water.
What Quantity of Water Can Be Collected Through RWH?
The quantity of water collected through RWH depends on several factors like the rainfall pattern in your area, the catchment area, and the type of collection system used. For example, the annual rainfall in your area is 600mm, and the RWH efficiency is 80%, then the amount of water harvested will be around. Amount of rainwater harvested = 100×0.6×0.8 = 48,000 liters
Can Stored Water Be Used for Drinking and Cooking Purposes?
The rainfall is generally pure, but it gets contaminated when it comes into contact with different surfaces when transported to the storage tank. If the rainwater is being collected from the roof, dust and leaves may get carried with it. You can prevent this by sweeping the roof clean before the rainy season starts. Even if leaves and dust get collected in the water tank, you can filter and boil the water to make it safe to use. Also, you can install several types of filters to make the water safe for cooking and drinking purposes.
To sum up, rainwater has many benefits as it is the source of freshwater for the earth, and harvesting rainwater can help solve the domestic water problem. Now that your doubts are quelled, you can plan an RWH system for your home or office.
