Rainwater Management

Water scarcity is already affecting more than 40% of the global population and is projected to rise [1]. Despite that water covers about 70% of the surface of our planet, by 2025 two-thirds of the world’s population may face water shortages [2]. 

Incorporating Rainwater Management systems as the primary source of water to our households and buildings can help to mitigate this impact as they can easily store up to 6,500 litres of clean water. In addition, this could reduce stormwater runoff, flooding and erosion. Another advantage is that rainwater harvesting can cut up to 50% of the water bills.

There are different strategies for Rainwater Management in all levels of a city. Private offices, public buildings and schools could adapt their infrastructure to redirect rainwater into green roofs, gardens and other water/landscape features, which also reduce the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect. The collection of rainwater for non-potable uses such as irrigation and flushing toilets could also be applied in neighborhoods and universities.

In addition, rainwater treatment equipment could be added to ensure water is safe to use for any of the purposes listed above. Two primary methods are filtration and sterilisation using chlorine or UV light. 

Architects and civil engineers along with city planners must start incorporating these strategies to achieve more sustainable designs in our built environment. Implementing this approach can increase the liveability of our cities while reducing the water crisis that we will shortly start facing.

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[1] United Nations, Sustainable Development Goals.

[2] World Wildlife Fund (WWF).