In some regions all over the globe, rainwater is their primary source of water. It is collected to supply the population’s needs and is referred to as rainwater harvesting. Moreover, this practice is gaining popularity across the globe and is presently applied in industrial and agricultural facilities, and even in homes.
All About Rainwater Harvesting
Rainwater harvesting involves collecting and storing rainwater for irrigation, washing, drinking, and other uses for water. Rain is gathered through a structure runoff (e.g., roof). Then, it is kept for use later on or repurposed to fill out groundwater.
When raindrops on the rooftop, it goes through gutters and downspouts until it reaches a storage container. Harvesting systems for rainwater differ in complexity. It can be a barrel one can use to water gardens or a huge cistern supplying an industrial facility for cooling. Moreover, you can also drink rainwater as long as it undergoes treatment or filtration.
The three basic kinds of harvesting systems are the following:
- Rain barrels: large containers that collect water.
- Dry systems: directs rainwater from roof to storage tank without passing underground, keeping pipes dry.
- Wet systems: directs water underground passing through pipes.
Is it Safe to Drink Rainwater?
Theoretically, rainwater is safe to consume because it is distilled in the earth’s atmosphere. However, surface and airborne contaminants can pollute rainwater. Therefore, drinking water without prior filtration or treatment is not recommended.
As the raindrops to the earth’s surface, it can pass through pollutants, such as soot, dust, and contaminants, contaminating the water.
This is generally true in cities or urban areas. Moreover, rainwater gets polluted by rooftops or other surfaces it runs into before collection.
For example, you may find bacteria, pesticides, bird poop, and rooftops. Rainwater will then carry these substances onto the container together as well.
