Rainwater Harvesting Definition and Importance Explained
Rainwater harvesting is the act of collecting and storing significant amounts of rainwater, to prevent resource depletion and environmental degradation. This article discusses rainwater harvesting definition and importance, as outlined below;
-Rainwater Harvesting Definition: 4 Ways to Define Rainwater Harvesting
-Importance of Rainwater Harvesting
Rainwater Harvesting Definition: 4 Ways to Define Rainwater Harvesting
Rainwater harvesting is a method of water conservation whereby rainwater is captured and stored for future use [1].
The concept of rainwater harvesting is a relatively-broad one, and can be linked to other concepts like sustainable development, water and soil conservation, carbon capture, circular economy, recycling, energy efficiency and energy conservation.
Below is an alternative rainwater harvesting definition which portrays the concept from an ecologic viewpoint;
Rainwater harvesting is a means of establishing sustainability in the ecosystem by conserving rainwater resources; thereby preventing energy waste and mitigating the risk of environmental impacts like erosion and desertification.
Another perspective outlines the rainwater harvesting definition on the basis of tools used in the process;
Rainwater harvesting is the use of structures comprising of PVC pipes, barrels, and filter beds, to collect rainwater from rooftops and artificial water channels, for future use.
Lastly, rainwater harvesting definition is given based on an outline of some steps involved in the process;
Rainwater harvesting is a process involving the collection, conveyance, purification and storage of rainwater runoff from rooftops and pavements, among other sources.
Importance of Rainwater Harvesting
Rainwater harvesting is important because it contributes to sustainability of the environment, economy and society, by conserving water resources and preventing both material and energy wastage.
The importance of rainwater harvesting to the environment is based on resource conservation. Collection and storage of rainwater mitigates water wastage. Other manmade environmental challenges and natural hazards related to water wastage, such as; soil erosion, stormwater pollution, flooding, and contaminant spread, are also mitigated.
The importance of rainwater harvesting to the economy is also based on conservation of resources. Conserving water resources allows energy to be saved for other important purposes like electricity generation, and saves resources that would have been expended on environmental remediation.
Less energy demand also helps with the adoption and use of renewable energy options like wind and solar, since these alternatives generally have a lower energy density than fossil fuels.
With respect to the society, the importance of rainwater harvesting can be traced to its ability to improve the quality of life through access to water resources and environmental conservation; thereby supporting sustainable agriculture and industrial operations, while reducing the prevalence of social problems like food insecurity, unemployment and hunger.
Conclusion
Rainwater harvesting is the collection and storage of rainwater from rooftops and other sources, to prevent wastage and environmental degradation.
The importance of rainwater harvesting is based on its role in economic, environmental and social sustainability.
References
1). Dey, P.; Sikka, A. K. (2010). “Water Conservation through Rainwater Harvesting.” Available at: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/228320991_Water_Conservation_through_Rainwater_Harvesting. (Accessed 18 October 2022).
