16 Mai 2024
Rainwater harvesting is an ecological method which consists of collecting natural water that falls during rains. It is often collected from the roofs of buildings, filtered, then used for various non-potable purposes, such as irrigating gardens, washing vehicles, or filling toilet tanks. It is a widespread practice around the world to save drinking water and promote sustainable management of water resources.
The authorized uses for rainwater are varied and can contribute to a more sustainable use of water resources. Here are some of the common uses of rainwater:
Garden irrigation: Rainwater is often used to water gardens, parks and green spaces. This practice helps reduce dependence on drinking water sources for irrigation, which is particularly important in regions where water is scarce or expensive.
Vehicle Washing: Rainwater can be used to wash vehicles, whether they are personal cars, trucks or commercial vehicles. Using rainwater for washing vehicles reduces drinking water consumption and helps preserve fresh water resources.
Filling flush tanks: Rainwater can be collected and stored to fill toilet flush tanks. This reduces the consumption of drinking water used for this purpose, which remains particularly advantageous in buildings with high traffic, such as businesses, schools, airports, or residential buildings.
Other uses not intended for human consumption: Rainwater can also be used for other needs not linked to human consumption, such as watering lawns, cleaning exterior floors, filling non-potable swimming pools, irrigation of sports fields, etc.
Large companies use rainwater to irrigate green spaces, cool equipment, collect and reuse water, manage stormwater, and raise awareness about responsible water use, thereby contributing to sustainable resource management .
The use of rainwater by large companies is of major economic importance. It helps reduce costs related to the supply of drinking water, its treatment and its distribution. Additionally, by reducing reliance on fresh water resources, businesses can also avoid cost increases associated with water scarcity and regulatory restrictions. This sustainable approach thus contributes to the profitability and competitiveness of companies while promoting responsible use of natural resources.
This is the case for toilets in Paris airports, for example.
Water is vital for life, but freshwater reserves are limited to only 0.5 to 0.75% of the water on earth. Droughts and shortages in France have highlighted this problem, sometimes requiring the intervention of tank trucks. A 100 m² roof can collect up to 60,000 liters of rainwater per year, even in less rainy months, offering significant savings as the cost of drinking water increases by 10% per year. Rainwater harvesting, with a suitable tank, can reduce your annual water bill by up to 50%, while preserving our precious resources.
In Africa, when the rain starts to fall, it is a spectacle of urgency and necessity. Residents rush with cans and containers to collect every drop of this precious water. For some, it is more than just a source of hydration: it is a symbol of hope and survival, because in certain regions where water is scarce, these raindrops are literally drunk as a precious nectar, ensuring a vital supply.