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A water balance modeling method was developed and applied to assess the water flow impact on urban water systems and water consumption in buildings. The method is based on the computational tool Aquacycle and a case study applied in a city in Brazil. Some modifications have been made to Aquacycle, including using urban drainage and sewage structures commonly applied in Brazil and parameters closer to the Brazilian reality. Such structures are decentralized wastewater treatment systems, deep tubular wells, irregular urban networks, and covered tanks for storing rainwater. Also, an automatic rainwater harvesting system was considered for flood mitigation. The water balance proposed may also be used for a modular assessment approach in urban water systems, aiming to facilitate the application of life-cycle assessment. A case study also aimed to assess alternative water supply in buildings, including scenarios with and without rainwater harvesting. The most significant positive impacts of using rainwater in buildings were a decrease of almost 6% in stormwater runoff and a decrease of water consumption by around 30%. There is a substantial waste of water in the distribution process, which, although it favors groundwater recharge, can have a high impact when considering energy and chemical products consumption. All contributions obtained via modeling can be used to provide specific fluxes in each component that can be used for technical, financial, or environmental evaluations, such as life-cycle approaches, carbon footprint, and cost–benefit assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rising demand for water and energy is driving the overuse of natural resources and contributing to environmental degradation. To address these challenges, the focus has shifted to low- and zero-emission technologies that utilize alternative sources of water and energy. Although such systems are commonly applied in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings, facilities along transportation routes generally depend on grid connections. This study aimed to enhance operational independence and reduce environmental impacts by modernizing the Rest Area Stobierna (RAS) along Poland's S19 expressway, part of the Via Carpatia road. A comprehensive technical, economic, and environmental analysis was conducted using HOMER Pro software (3.18.3 PRO Edition) and a simulation model based on YAS operating principles. The proposed Hybrid Renewable Energy System (HRES) incorporates photovoltaic panels, battery storage, and a rainwater harvesting system (RWHS). Two configurations of the HRES were evaluated, a prosumer-based setup and a hybrid-island mode. Optimization results showed that the hybrid-island configuration was most effective, achieving a 61.6% share of renewable energy in the annual balance, a 7.1-year return on investment, a EUR 0.77 million reduction in Net Present Cost (NPC), and a 75,002 kg decrease in CO2 emissions over the system's 25-year lifecycle. This study highlights the potential of integrating renewable energy and water systems to improve sustainability, reduce operational costs, and enhance service quality in road infrastructure facilities, offering a replicable model for similar contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rainwater is a source of freshwater that affects the aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems, and consequently human health. Since potential toxic elements (PTEs) have been found in rainwater in Southern Europe, its quality should be evaluated. This review assesses the current knowledge of the quality of rainwater in Southern Europe concerning PTEs, as well as its impact on the environment and human health. The presence of PTEs in rainwater poses challenges and simultaneously an opportunity for innovation in environmental management, particularly in water management. Further monitoring of rainwater quality, research, and policy development are needed to ensure that rainwater remains a viable and safe water resource. The challenges of rainwater quality regarding PTEs and of rainwater harvesting as a measure of drought mitigation, as observed in Southern Europe, require investing in rainwater treatment technologies. The treatment of rainwater harvested in Southern Europe can reduce environmental and health risks posed by PTEs, while enhancing the region's resilience to climate change and water scarcity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

If rainwater is not used, it is considered waste and ends up as surface water in underground resources or flows into oceans. In view of dwindling water resources, rainwater should not only flow as surface water but should be reused to conserve groundwater and mains water. To achieve this, rainwater must be collected and solutions produced on site. When we look at water consumption rates, we realize that a large amount of water is significantly used for the irrigation of landscaped areas. In addition, the water requirements of plants are often not known and water is wasted through unconscious irrigation. This study aims to provide the right amount of irrigation by showing the water requirements of plants according to their species. At the same time, it aims to provide the right amount of irrigation by showing the water requirements of plants according to their species. These two main objectives are aimed at learn the needs of plants and at the same time ensuring efficient water use. In this study, it is aimed to contribute to the water cycle by reusing rainwater. Various roofing and paving materials were identified in the study area. The amount of rainwater to be collected from the different materials within the study area was calculated using the Rational Method and the water consumption of each plant was calculated using the CropWat 8.0 program. In conclusion, the amount of rainwater collected on the entire campus was calculated as 494.000 m³per year and the amount of irrigation water required by the plants was 54.530 m³per year. This data shows that the amount of rainwater collected corresponds to the water consumption of the landscape plants. The rainwater harvested on campus is fed into tanks. The rainwater collected on the campus is channelled into tanks. The volume of the tanks was calculated. In addition to the stored rainwater, solutions were developed on-site using sustainable methods for the remaining rainwater. Plants with low or medium water requirements are recommended for use in new landscape areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we show how a rainwater harvesting system is made to work. Located at a school in the rural outskirts of Cochabamba, Bolivia, the performance of the system depends on ongoing forms of sociotechnical tinkering: it works well because of the continuous fine-tuning, adaptations, negotiations, and adjustments that people engage in. Acknowledging this hinges on accepting that infrastructures are more fragile, emergent, and contingent than is normally allowed for in engineering textbooks. The language people mobilize to explain their acts of tinkering is also different from how engineers express what they do: they talk about care and caring – care for each other, for their children, for plants – and emphasize reciprocal responsibilities and collective concerns. For them, making water flow is not just about meeting goals of productivity and efficiency, but also about restoring and sustaining the infrastructure itself as well as the relations it supports and makes possible. It is a way of talking that expresses concerns of sustainability and justice. Our conclusion from studying this rainwater harvesting system is that there is merit in expanding and complementing prevailing notions of engineering as optimizing forms of control, with theorizations of engineering as forms of tinkering care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research utilized the bagging machine learning algorithm along with the Thornthwaite moisture index (TMI) to enhance the understanding of climate variability and change, with the objective of identifying the most efficient climate service pathways in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Monthly datasets at a 0.5° resolution (1960–2020) were collected and analyzed using R 4.2.2 software and spreadsheets. The results indicate significant changes in climatic conditions in Sudan, with aridity escalation at a rate of 0.37% per year. The bagging algorithm illustrated that actual water use was mainly influenced by rainfall and runoff management, showing an inverse relationship with increasing air temperatures. Consequently, sustainable strategies focusing on runoff and temperature control, such as rainwater harvesting, agroforestry and plant breeding were identified as the most effective climate services to mitigate and adapt to climate variability in SSA. The findings suggest that runoff management (e.g., rainwater harvesting) could potentially offset up to 22% of the adverse impacts of climate variability, while temperature control strategies (e.g., agroforestry) could account for the remaining 78%. Without these interventions, climate variability will continue to pose serious challenges to food security, livelihood generations, and regional stability. The research calls for further in-depth studies on the attributions of climate variability using finer datasets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Published results on rainwater management systems revealed a lack of holistic science-based design principles. A new approach to rainwater management is proposed. Its necessity and feasibility are discussed. It is demonstrated that quantitatively harvesting rainfall and infiltrating a fraction should be mandatory. Thus, the primary site-specific parameter is the intensity of rainfall. Clearly, rainwater should be harvested and used everywhere as a valuable resource. Under arid semi-arid conditions large tanks maximize water storage for the long dry season while under humid conditions the same helps to minimize the frequency of emptying to avoid flooding. The new approach separates rainwater (and stormwater) from sewage and has the potential to maintain the natural hydrological cycle in urban areas despite urbanization. In already crowded slums, rainwater harvesting (RWH) can also be used to restore the hydrological cycle. The new approach advocates for decentralized RWH infrastructures to harvest, infiltrate, and store rainwater in individual residences, while piping overflows to semi-centralized cluster-scale tanks. Rooting integrated water resource management on RWH appears to be the missing puzzle in: (i) restoring the natural hydrological cycle where it has been disturbed (landscape restoration), (ii) avoiding flooding, and (i) mitigating soil erosion. This is essential for sustainable development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Access to water has been and remains one of humanity's greatest challenges. Especially in arid plains exposed to significant climatic fluctuations and future global change trends. In the past and present, local communities of the arid plains of central-western Argentina (i.e., Guanacache Lagoons, Cuyo region) have developed multiple strategies to manage water supply problems. The aims of this study are: i) to characterize the different water harvesting technologies (pre-Hispanic and modern) used, and ii) to compare the small local strategies of water harvesting (bottom-up solutions) with the large centralized projects (top-down solutions). On the one hand, we show the transformations of these technologies over time, and the challenges faced by inhabitants in the context of climate change trends. On the other hand, we analyze the role of the state through hydraulic policies and projects implemented by the provincial states over the last two centuries and how this impacted the study area. This review is based on a historical and archaeological bibliography, and recent publications about the region, including articles based on our ethnographic fieldwork. Our results demonstrate the valuable experience accumulated by local populations in water harvesting methods, particularly in areas where groundwater is deep and saline, and shows the adaptability of these technologies in contexts of increasing scarcity. We considered that local indigenous knowledge can largely contribute to the sustainable management of water resources. This study might be useful for decision-makers and water managers in drylands around the world to find and equitable approach that combines technical advances with local knowledge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing water demand driven by population growth and climate change strains water resources, especially in arid regions. The effectiveness of rainwater harvesting (RWH) as a viable solution is contingent upon the meticulous selection of appropriate sites. Contemporary efforts have increasingly utilized Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing technologies to optimize the identification of ideal locations for implementing RWH infrastructure. However, inconsistencies in rainfall classification methodologies can compromise the accuracy of the resulted suitability maps. Consequently, a standardized approach to grading rainfall depth for mapping RWH sites becomes imperative. This study presents an innovative rainfall classification method tailored for both micro and macro catchment areas, offering a reliable and adaptable approach to rainfall analysis. By refining classification criteria, this method aims to improve the consistency and precision of RWH mapping, addressing a gap in existing methodologies and providing a more standardized approach. Through the application of FAHP and Fuzzy overlay techniques in ArcGIS 10.4, the study compares traditional rainfall classification with the proposed new classification method to assess RWH suitability in Kalar. The comparison highlights that the new rainfall classification-based map yielded higher accuracy and realism compared to traditional methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart Üniversitesi Terzioğlu Kampüsü'nde gerçekleştirilen bu çalışma, kampüs alanında Sünger Şehir konseptinin uygulanabilirliğini araştırmayı amaçlamaktadır. Çalışma kapsamında mevcut duruma yönelik saha araştırmaları yapılmış ve coğrafi bilgi sistemi ortamı kullanılarak sayısal veriler elde edilmiştir.Elde edilen bulgulara göre, mevcut durumda yapılacak değişiklikler ile yerleşkenin sünger şehir konseptine yaklaştırılması mümkündür. Bu değişiklikler arasında yeşil çatı uygulamaları, geçirimsiz yüzeylerin geçirgen hale getirilmesi ve mevcut yağmur suyu drenaj sisteminin iyileştirilmesi yer almaktadır. Ayrıca, kampüs içinde yağmur bahçeleri ve yağmur suyu biriktirme haznelerinin inşa edilmesi önerilmiştir. Bu uygulamaların hayata geçirilmesi, kampüsün su kaynaklarını daha verimli kullanmasını sağlayarak çevresel sürdürülebilirliği artıracaktır.Çalışma sonucunda, Sünger Şehir konseptinin kampüs içerisinde uygulanmasının mümkün olduğu ve belirlenen alanlarda yapılacak iyileştirmelerin bu süreci destekleyeceği tespit edilmiştir. Bu tür yeşil uygulamaların, kampüsün ekolojik ayak izini azaltacağı, yağmur suyunu etkili bir şekilde biriktireceği ve iklim değişikliği ile mücadelede önemli bir rol oynayacağı sonucuna varılmıştır.

As the world grapples with the profound impacts of climate change, water scarcity has become a pressing issue. However, there is a shortage of in-depth research on the trade-offs between water resource dependence and the economic, ecological, and social needs of arid and semi-arid regions like Lanzhou, China. Flower cultivation in Lanzhou relies heavily on the Yellow River, often overlooking the potential of natural rainfall. Here we first calibrated a water balance model through artificial precipitation experiments in a Soil and Water Conservation Demonstration Park in Lanzhou. We then developed a multi-objective optimization model to balance the cost-benefit considerations of various plausible measures across economic, ecological, and social dimensions in the searching for solutions that are more adaptable to climate change and local development needs. Model simulations show that the solutions we designed can effectively manage water-shortage days, significantly reduce Yellow River water extraction, and improve cost-effectiveness, meeting 66%–80% of water needs for flower cultivation in the studied park. The findings highlight the potential of rainwater collection and utilization solutions to mitigate water scarcity in arid and semi-arid cities, thereby enriching water resource management.

Abstract This study examines the critical issue of water scarcity and its impact on public health in Nongpok Sekmai and surrounding villages in India. Despite government initiatives to provide universal tap water access by 2024, these villages lack safe drinking water. Traditional sources like open wells are contaminated, and the primary river is drying up due to illegal sand mining and gravel extraction activities upstream. This situation results in a significant public health burden, with villagers facing financial strain due to waterborne diseases and the need to purchase water for basic needs. The study also examines the negative link between on-premise access to safe water and mothers' time spent on water collection. The study highlights the need for a multi-pronged approach. Renewed government efforts to implement the tap water initiative or provide alternative clean water sources like filtration plants or community wells are crucial. Additionally, stricter enforcement is needed to curb illegal mining activities and ensure river sustainability. Furthermore, exploring community-based solutions like rainwater harvesting and raising awareness about waterborne diseases and sanitation practices can empower the population. Addressing this water crisis demands a collaborative effort from the government, local communities, and environmental agencies. This study employed a mixed-methods approach, utilizing visual photographic analysis and community engagement to investigate water contamination in Nongpok Sekmai river, Manipur. The findings highlight key contamination indicators such as turbidity, algae blooms, and floating debris, while also addressing the health and social impacts perceived by the local population.

This research investigated the governance of the national community-based rainwater harvesting initiative, known as One Million Cisterns (P1MC), within the local context of the Brazilian Amazon rainforest. The initiative aimed to empower communities by providing water collection infrastructures and involved over 3,000 civil society organisations and various local and national bodies. Our study observed that while some communities thrived, others faced challenges in adopting and maintaining the cisterns. Focusing on communities near the city of Belém, Pará, within a specific Protected Extractivist Reserve Areas (RESEX), we explored the factors behind success and failure in managing rainwater systems. By applying Ostrom's Institutional Analysis and Development Framework (IADF) and Beer's Viable System Model (VSM), we assessed local institutional arrangements and community self-organisation. Through questionnaires and interviews with 109 end-users between 2018 and 2022, we identified two distinct organisational structures and their associated pathologies. The combined use of IADF and VSM provided valuable insights into the structural and institutional dynamics affecting system adoption, maintenance, and governance. Our findings emphasise the importance of a comprehensive framework integrating these analytical tools for designing effective social programmes in Brazil. This study contributes to the ongoing discourse on sustainable development and resource management in the Amazon region, highlighting the significance of tailored governance structures and community engagement in addressing complex environmental challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A stock watering place (SWP) is a type of travelling stock reserve, and Western Local Land Services (WLLS) is the controlling authority of SWPs in the semi-arid Western region of New South Wales, Australia. Over half SWPs have ground tanks that were installed in the 1800s to provide water for travelling stock. The location of many SWP ground tanks is thought to have been influenced by traditional Aboriginal knowledge, however, their position for capturing contemporary surface flows has not previously been assessed. This study aims to use multicriteria analysis within a Geographic Information System (GIS) to investigate whether SWP ground tanks are at the most suitable rainwater harvesting (RWH) location. ArcGIS was used to analyse data to identify RWH suitability based on slope, soil group, and drainage density. These layers were then weighted and combined to produce a final RWH suitability map. Results show that most (50.7%) ground tanks are in high RWH suitability locations, 47.9% are in medium RWH suitability, 1.4% are in low suitability, and none are in unsuitable locations. These results indicate that 1800s RWH suitability selection methods were highly effective. The findings of this study will contribute to the WLLS SWP knowledge base and will assist in prioritising SWPs for works to improve RWH efficiency, thereby ensuring reliable stock water on SWPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glycyrrhiza uralensis is an important plant in desert ecology, where low rainfall and water scarcity limit its growth. In order to explore harvested rainwater and use for Glycyrrhiza uralensis growth and to reduce water scarcity in Northwest China's arid area, this study was conducted in April and July of 2023. Five types of slope micro rainwater collection measures, including horizontal terraces, square ridges, and contour ridges, were utilized to monitor rainfall and runoff. Glycyrrhiza uralensis seedlings were utilized as test subjects for supplementary irrigation in pots utilizing the natural drought method. The results show that supplemental irrigation boosts Glycyrrhiza uralensis root growth and water uptake capacity in short-term drought conditions. Irrigation with 42.97 mm enhanced Glycyrrhiza uralensis root length, belowground dry weight, and water use efficiency by 104.5%, 39.54%, and 4.18%. Supplemental irrigation under prolonged drought stress shifted Glycyrrhiza uralensis development from below- to aboveground, resulting in decreased activity of osmotic adjustment material activity in leaves. After 31 days of continuous drought following supplemental irrigation, plant height and aboveground fresh weight increased by 58.16% and 20.03%, respectively, whereas the superoxide dismutase activity was reduced by 63.16% in the 42.97 mm irrigated treatment. Furthermore, under short-term drought stress following supplemental irrigation, leaf water use efficiency was primarily influenced by osmoregulatory substances and plant growth characteristics. Under long-term drought stress, it was influenced by osmoregulatory substances and photosynthetic properties. This research is critical for preventing soil erosion and restoring grassland ecological health in the Ili River Valley. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the critical issue of water scarcity and its impact on public health in Nongpok Sekmai and surrounding villages in India. Despite government initiatives to provide universal tap water access by 2024, these villages lack safe drinking water. Traditional sources like open wells are contaminated, and the primary river is drying up due to illegal sand mining and gravel extraction activities upstream. This situation results in a significant public health burden, with villagers facing financial strain due to waterborne diseases and the need to purchase water for basic needs. The study also examines the negative link between on-premise access to safe water and mothers' time spent on water collection. The study highlights the need for a multi-pronged approach. Renewed government efforts to implement the tap water initiative or provide alternative clean water sources like filtration plants or community wells are crucial. Additionally, stricter enforcement is needed to curb illegal mining activities and ensure river sustainability. Furthermore, exploring community-based solutions like rainwater harvesting and raising awareness about waterborne diseases and sanitation practices can empower the population. Addressing this water crisis demands a collaborative effort from the government, local communities, and environmental agencies. This study employed a mixed-methods approach, utilizing visual photographic analysis and community engagement to investigate water contamination in Nongpok Sekmai river, Manipur. The findings highlight key contamination indicators such as turbidity, algae blooms, and floating debris, while also addressing the health and social impacts perceived by the local population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the water resources in four sections of Chapultepec Forest (CF) to assess their current state and propose strategies for proper management. The forest is significant for Mexico City due to its historical and cultural value, ecological relevance, and contribution to the quality of life of its residents. For diagnosis, a water balance was carried out under current conditions, and water supply and demand were projected to the year 2050. The results show that there is currently a water deficit in sections 1, 2, and 3, mainly due to the demand for irrigation water. Towards 2050, and considering the trend of climatological variables, an increase in the deficit is expected for the entire CF due to increased evaporation and water demand in its various uses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The environmental impacts and water savings of different configurations of non-potable domestic water use (toilet flushing and laundry), sourced from rainwater harvesting (RWH) and air-conditioning condensate water (ACWH), in multi-family buildings in Israel are examined. Two building types differing in specific roof areas, and three climatic sub-regions were modeled. RWH satisfied 23 and 46% of the water demand for toilet flushing and laundry in high-rise and low-rise buildings, respectively. Air conditioning is used almost daily during Israel's hot and dry summers. Hence, the combined RWH-ACWH system saved 42 and 64% in high- and low-rise buildings, respectively. Displacing desalinated seawater, a significant water source in Israel, with alternative water sources lowered the environmental impacts with an increase in storage, up to a certain volume, beyond which impacts started rising. The same infrastructure is used during winter for RWH and for ACWH during summer; thus, combining the two exhibits significant water savings, with marginal extra costs while lowering the environmental impacts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water scarcity and climate change led to changes in water management, especially in urban areas. RainWater Harvesting (RWH) is a promising technique that allows the collection and reuse of rainwater, as well as protecting sewage systems from overload. This article reviews the current state of RWH in Europe, including advantages, implementation, potential efficiency, usage requirements, quality, and treatment processes. The main findings include the importance of RWH as a sustainable water management technique, the historical background and renewed interest in RWH systems in recent years, the positive impact of RWH on reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, the versatility of rainwater usage, and the potential cost savings and benefits in various regions. RWH systems are gaining popularity in Europe, particularly in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. Climate change and precipitation patterns affect rainwater availability and quality. RWH can be used for various purposes, including drinking, but requires proper purification for health safety. It is also being implemented in new locations like airports and large buildings. RWH systems have a high potential to overcome undesired results of climate change. Among that, numerous aspects still need to be considered in the future that allow the application of RWH systems on a larger scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Ancient water harvesting systems, such as those from the Indus Valley Civilization (~3500 BCE), have been vital for irrigation and climate resilience, especially in arid regions. One such prominent system in South Asia, called tank irrigation, initially thrived through community management but declined post-independence due to colonial policies and neglect in Sri Lanka and India. This study evaluates current policy frameworks and rehabilitation programs to enhance the resilience of these systems in India, develop strategies for their protection and adaptation to climate change, and integrate global lessons for sustainable development. Methods: A systematic meta-analysis of grey literature was conducted to aggregate data on policy constraints. Policy analysis involved detailed investigations of relevant documents, regulations, and comparative analyses of frameworks at regional and national levels. Pilot projects on tank rehabilitation were assessed through reported case studies and field surveys to gauge impact. Thematic analysis was used to explore the global potential of these systems in climate resilience and overall environmental sustainability. Results: The analysis showed that pilot projects for tank rehabilitation had limited success in achieving sustainability under current climate conditions. Tank irrigation systems are crucial for adapting to extreme weather, including floods, droughts, and heat waves, replenishing groundwater, reducing soil erosion, and ensuring reliable water supplies. Traditional water harvesting technologies support 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including clean water access, hunger reduction, gender equality, and climate action. Integrating AI and machine learning in water management benefits disaster response, while eco-tourism aids system maintenance and cultural awareness. Discussion: The study underscores the need for policy reforms to enhance tank rehabilitation and institutional arrangements. It calls for increased beneficiary participation and constitutional recognition of current practices. Strategic, national-scale assessments and resilience targets are recommended to improve the effectiveness of such water harvesting systems in mitigating natural hazards and enhancing environmental services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research focused on rainwater for human consumption is being conducted in different regions of the world. The systematic review revealed that the inadequate quality of harvested rainwater and its scarcity pose significant barriers to the installation of the catchment of rainwater for noble uses. The improper design of rainwater harvesting systems, often a result of the disregard of critical data, is a crucial factor leading to the development of poorly structured systems and inadequate management of this valuable resource. The absence of scientific knowledge about the process further compounds the problem, leading to a sense of insecurity for potential consumers. Ultrafiltration (UF) membranes, followed by ultraviolet disinfection or chlorination, have shown satisfactory results for the potability of rainwater. Additionally, the implementation of photovoltaic panel energized rainwater UF is both economically and technically feasible, and serves as an alternative to traditional water supply approaches. Most studies focused on the utilization of harvested water for non‐drinking purposes, thereby providing opportunities for new studies into effective treatment methods to cater to local and global potable water demands. Therefore, this review aimed to provide insights into the current progress, future challenges, and opportunities related to rainwater harvesting systems and their treatment for the supply of drinking water. This article is categorized under:Engineering Water > Engineering WaterEngineering Water > Sustainable Engineering of WaterEngineering Water > Planning Water [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rainwater harvesting (RWH) has the potential to provide a sustainable solution to the problem of water scarcity. Therefore, this study aims to assess the management of (RWH) by distributing a questionnaire to householders in the northern region of Jordan. The questionnaire covered all the parameters that have an impact on water use, management, and quality of RWH. The results of the statistical analysis showed that 25.5% of the cisterns were constructed in the last 15-30 years. About (60.2%) of cisterns were made of concrete, and 46.6% of them have capacities between 30-50 m³. The largest percentage of these cisterns (43.7%) are used for all purposes, including drinking, while 23.3%, 18.45%, and 10.7% are used for irrigation, washing, and cooking, respectively. HRW is mainly collected from rooftops (72.8%) while 25.2% is collected from home yards. Regarding the surrounding environment, 62.1% of the houses have no sanitary system and depend on cesspools for sewage disposal, and 8.7% have an animal barn near the cistern. Roof cleaning before the rainy season was implemented by 84.5% of the households, while 12.6% reported complaints due to water quality. 4.9% of them visited the hospital. About 24.3% visually inspected water quality, and 3.9%, 4.9%, and 2.9% of them reported abnormal pain, change of water taste, and presence of impurities in water, respectively. It is recommended to establish public awareness programs to enhance RWH management. The program should outline the best practices to collect and store rainwater and to take appropriate corrective measures to get high water quality for drinking purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mitigating precipitation extremes is a major issue due to destructive global warming and climate change. Heavy rainfall and drought have posed a threat to human life and ecology. That said, new strategies and new action plans are needed at local and global levels through needed cooperation from different stakeholders to handle the possible risks associated with precipitation extremes. Türkiye has become one of the most vulnerable countries involved in climate change due to its geographical location, rapid urbanization, and deforestation. Many forests have been destroyed to make room for agriculture, animal grazing as well as for manufacturing and construction. The impact has caused complications in landscapes. Precipitation extremes, such as heavy rainfalls and drought, are posing significant threats for many cities in Türkiye. In recent years Türkiye has faced a large number of extreme events regarding precipitation. In this line, the present study aims to explore the potential benefits of rainwater harvesting (RWH) in mitigating precipitation extremes by overviewing regulatory actions of rainwater harvesting and best practices worldwide. In addition an interview-based survey was conducted with domain experts in the water management field to better understand the current challenges of stormwater management in Türkiye and discuss the role of rainwater harvesting against precipitation extremes. The results of the study have shown that Türkiye has several problems with infrastructure to mitigate precipitation extremes, such as shortcomings in capacity and old water management systems, unseparated water collection and sewage systems, and lack of green infrastructure. In addition to urbanization, expansion in industry and tourism may cause water unavailability. The study has also indicated that many authorities around the globe try to boost RWH use by stipulating or encouraging RWH through incentives to save a large amount of water by implementing different projects. This research has argued that RWH promises several benefits thanks to its cost-effectiveness and contribution to water storage. Therefore, this study has recommended that policymakers should take immediate action against precipitation extremes by introducing new regulations, such as mandating rainwater harvesting for old buildings, industrial and touristic places. Preparing new guidelines and applying rooftop RWH systems that comply with Building Code requirements should also be considered for the widespread use of rainwater in rural and urban areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to determine the irrigation water demand due to solar radiation in high-tech greenhouses using hydroponic systems in Turkey's Mediterranean and continental climates, and to determine the annual water consumption and storage capacity with harvested rainwater. Intensive greenhouse cultivation and the recent increase in modern greenhouse cultivation were important factors in selecting the provinces for the study. The chosen provinces were Antalya and Adana, with a Mediterranean climate, and Afyonkarahisar and Kırşehir, with a continental climate. In this research, depending on the production period, the amount of water consumed per unit of area in greenhouses in Antalya, which has a Mediterranean climate, was determined to be 1173.52 L m−2 per yr−1, and in Adana, it was 1109.18 L m−2 per yr−1. In the provinces of Afyonkarahisar and Kırşehir, where a continental climate prevails, water consumption was calculated to be 1479.11 L m−2 per yr−1 and 1370.77 L m−2 per yr−1, respectively. Storage volumes for the provinces of Antalya, Adana, Afyonkarahisar and Kırşehir were found to be 438.39 L m−2, 122.71 L m−2, 42.12 L m−2 and 43.65 L m−2, respectively. For the provinces of Antalya, Adana, Afyonkarahisar and Kırşehir, the rates of rainwater harvesting and meeting plants' water consumption were calculated to be 80.79%, 54.27%, 27.47% and 25.16%, respectively. In addition, the amount of water fee savings that could be achieved by rainwater harvesting was calculated to be USD 901.3 per yr−1 for Antalya, USD 835.3 per yr−1 for Adana, USD 247.6 per yr−1 for Afyonkarahisar and USD 210.2 per yr−1 for Kırşehir. As a result, rainwater harvesting will not only provide economic gain to enterprises but will also be important in reducing the negative effects of irregular rainfall regimes caused by climate change on underground and surface water resources. It was also concluded that enterprises should focus on popularizing rainwater harvesting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study assesses the environmental impact of integrated water supply and sanitation management with a focus on wastewater and rainwater treatment. The study uses an integrated methodology including comparative data analysis, evaluation of water treatment technologies and environmental modeling. The results show that the integration of different treatment technologies such as physico-chemical and biological processes significantly improves water quality, making it suitable for reuse or safe discharge into ecosystems. The study emphasizes the effectiveness of these technologies in reducing environmental pollution, especially in urban areas. In addition, the analysis demonstrates the cost-effectiveness of integrated water management approaches that reduce water consumption and treatment costs, while emphasizing the importance of complying with water quality and environmental regulations. The study also identifies the need for further technological and infrastructural innovations to improve the efficiency of water supply and sanitation systems in response to climate change and urbanization. These findings contribute to the development of sustainable water management strategies that minimize environmental impacts and promote long-term sustainability in urban and rural settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rainwater harvesting (RWH) systems offer an opportunity to diversify the water matrix under drought scenario. However, there is not a robust institutional framework for managing this new source of water. The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of the catchment surface material on the quality of rainwater collected. Three systems were installed in south-central Chile, which collected rainwater from three different surfaces: gravel tile, zinc-polycarbonate sheets, and clay tiles. The RWH system consists of a first flush diverter and then a storage system with chlorination. The rainwater was characterized by its physicochemical and microbiological properties for its possible final use, considering the current regulations for drinking water and agricultural irrigation. The results indicate that the raw rainwater harvested from different surfaces presented a high mean conductivity of 232 ± 146 µS/cm. Meanwhile, fecal coliform values were <1 MPN/100 mL, which indicates good microbiological quality. Regarding the quality for use as drinking water, it was found that of 39 parameters evaluated according to a reference standard, only the pH was above the indicated limit. Meanwhile, the harvested water presents satisfactory quality for irrigation, except for its sodium (35–50% above the standard) and pesticide values (with respect to 0.028 µg Delta-BHC/L at Site 2). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study discusses the critical importance of sustainable access to clean water, particularly in regions facing severe water shortages. The study investigates the public perception of harvested rainwater as a solution to water scarcity in South Africa's semi arid regions. Conducted with 110 respondents, it explores demographics, rainwater harvesting practices, storage methods, and factors affecting satisfaction. Most households (39.6%) had four to six members, with a balanced gender distribution. Despite widespread unemployment (53.2%), 33.6% were graduates. Rainwater was harvested primarily during rainfall (64.9%), with 94.5% of the respondents collected from their own roofs. Storage methods included JoJo tanks (41.8%) and small buckets (54.5%). Concerningly, 95.5% did not test water quality, yet 64.5% found it acceptable. Regression analysis showed water quality significantly influenced satisfaction (b = 0.623, p < 0.005). The high prevalence of rainwater harvesting underscores its potential to address water shortages sustainably. Highlights: Rooftop harvested water is suitable for various uses except for drinking.Unsustainable access to sufficient water is the most significant reason why rooftop water harvesting is practiced.The quality of harvested water significantly impacts the level of satisfaction.Inadequate knowledge of harvesting techniques and maintenance hampers the effectiveness and benefits of rainwater harvesting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Drought is a recurring disaster in several regions of Indonesia, often happening from April to September annually. During the dry season, a substantial reduction in rainfall leads to inadequate water supplies and drought. Drought significantly affects food crop output, water scarcity, and reduced water availability for daily necessities, disrupting everyday activities like bathing, washing, and cooking. Seraya Village, situated in Karangasem Regency, Bali Province, frequently faces drought conditions. Seraya, a settlement prone to drought, was officially designated as such by the Karangsem Regent by Regulation Number 36 of 2008, specifying the location of drought natural disasters in Seraya settlement, East Seraya, and West Seraya in the Karangasem District. This study aimed to compare the capacity of rainwater harvesting with the current home water demand in Seraya-Karangasem Village to determine the feasibility of using rainwater to address water shortages and avert drought. This study employs quantitative descriptive methods by analyzing primary data on the regional conditions and limits of the study area, along with secondary data on demographic (population), geographical, and rainfall data spanning a decade. The study revealed that the rainwater harvesting potential in Seraya Village, Karangasem District, was 254342191.15 liters per year, while the total water demand was 227660565 liters yearly. This resulted in excess harvested water amounting to 26681626.15 liters per year, 12% more than the total water needs. The excess amount of rainwater that may be harvested compared to the entire domestic water demand demonstrates the effective utilization of rainwater harvesting systems in preventing water shortages and droughts in Seraya-Karangasem Village.

Groundwater is an essential resource, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions where surface water is scarce. The increasing global demand for water, coupled with climate change and pollution, has posed significant challenges to the sustainable management of groundwater. The water distribution pattern is not unconnected with the territorial and geographical strategies for national development. Therefore, securing the water future requires special treatment with mechanical concepts, technical efficiency, scientific involvement, and regional consideration as a generic approach to meet the future demand for potable and clean water. This systematic review aims to evaluate groundwater management challenges in arid and semi-arid regions and explore sustainable strategies to address these challenges. By synthesizing existing literature, the review provides a comprehensive understanding of the current state of groundwater resources, the impacts of over-extraction, contamination, climate change, and poor economic development strategies incompatible with water resources in arid regions, and the effectiveness of various management practices. Compiled studies predict a hard time in groundwater resources (GWR) and possible future disasters if proper steps are not taken. However, previous scientific and technical approaches indicate green-light but seem not to have gained enough momentum and a generic approach to secure the water's future, especially in hot arid regions due to the impacts of climate phenomena. The huge research gap due to uncertainties and difficulties in predicting the future of arid climate phenomena on groundwater has further complicated the water challenges. Five top priorities were proposed as the way forward to improve the water's future, especially in hot arid regions, which include but are not limited to (i) geophysical methods for monitoring and management, (ii) effective rainwater harvesting mechanisms (ERHM), (iii) additional storage support mechanism (ASSM), (iv) developing pollutants filters, and (v) aquifer afforestation, to nail the acute water challenges for effective water security and sustainability. In addition, developing next-generation filters to remove harmful substances and retain essential minerals in the water while selecting purification technologies based on regional geology, climate conditions, and needs remains a critical approach. Finally, the outcomes from the study would help all the stakeholders and policymakers in groundwater resource management to take decisive and sustainable measures for safe water supply in the affected areas to meet the global target of equitable access to safe, affordable, clean, and unpolluted drinking water.

Rainfall variability and low soil fertility are negatively affecting sorghum grain yield in smallholder farming systems. This study investigated the effect of contour-based rainwater harvesting (RWH) systems and cattle manure on grain yield of two sorghum varieties Macia and Sc Sila. A factorial experiment was laid out in a split-split plot design and replicated three times. Rainwater harvesting practice (tied contour, infiltration pits, standard contour) were the main plot factor, sorghum variety (Macia, Sc Sila) sub-plot factor, cattle manure application rates (0; 5; 8; 10; 15; 20) t/ha sub-sub plot factor, and distance from rainwater harvesting practice (0–5 m; 5–10 m; 10–15 m) sub-sub-sub plot factor. Grain yield under tied contour (TC) and infiltration pits (IP) rainwater harvesting systems were compared with the control - standard contour (SC). The results showed that TC and IP improved soil moisture content by 1.83% and 1.71% respectively compared to SC. Sorghum grain yield was significantly higher (p IP (2.10 t/ha) > SC (1.49 t/ha) at cattle manure application rate of 20 t/ha. Sorghum variety Macia had the highest grain yield of 2.01 t/ha at cattle manure application of 20 t/ha. In both sorghum varieties, TC and IP had higher sorghum grain yields than SC at all distances from the RWH practice in both seasons (2016/17 and 2017/18). The findings suggest that the use of TC and SC RWH practices, and cattle manure may increase sorghum grain yields in rain-fed smallholder farming systems.

Access to water has been and remains one of humanity’s greatest challenges. Especially in arid plains exposed to significant climatic fluctuations and future global change trends. In the past and present, local communities of the arid plains of central-western Argentina (i.e., Guanacache Lagoons, Cuyo region) have developed multiple strategies to manage water supply problems. The aims of this study are: i) to characterize the different water harvesting technologies (pre-Hispanic and modern) used, and ii) to compare the small local strategies of water harvesting (bottom-up solutions) with the large centralized projects (top-down solutions). On the one hand, we show the transformations of these technologies over time, and the challenges faced by inhabitants in the context of climate change trends. On the other hand, we analyze the role of the state through hydraulic policies and projects implemented by the provincial states over the last two centuries and how this impacted the study area. This review is based on a historical and archaeological bibliography, and recent publications about the region, including articles based on our ethnographic fieldwork. Our results demonstrate the valuable experience accumulated by local populations in water harvesting methods, particularly in areas where groundwater is deep and saline, and shows the adaptability of these technologies in contexts of increasing scarcity. We considered that local indigenous knowledge can largely contribute to the sustainable management of water resources. This study might be useful for decision-makers and water managers in drylands around the world to find and equitable approach that combines technical advances with local knowledge.