Rainwater cisterns and barrels: a sustainable solution for urban water management
Sustainable management of stormwater in urban environments is an increasing challenge. The frequency of droughts and sudden downpours has created a need for solutions that can both alleviate water scarcity and prevent flooding. Rainwater harvesting cisterns and barrels are an effective way of ensuring that rainwater is not wasted but used in everyday life.
The urban use of cisterns and barrels is particularly important, as the possibility of natural water leakage is minimised due to the concrete surfaces. However, rainwater harvesting systems make it easy to store water collected from roofs and use it later for irrigation, cleaning or even flushing toilets. This is not only an environmentally friendly solution, it also offers the possibility to reduce water bills.
Modern urban rainwater harvesters are now available in a compact, aesthetically pleasing design, making them easy to integrate into any yard or patio environment. From simple barrels to larger underground cisterns, there are many types available to suit different needs.
As well as providing economic benefits, rainwater harvesting also helps to relieve the pressure on urban sewer systems, especially during periods of heavy rainfall. Support programmes by local authorities and communities are making the purchase and installation of equipment increasingly accessible to urban populations.
Water-sensitive cities: the “From Sydenham to Bankstown” project
In 2018, the Cooperative Research Centres Program for Water Sensitive Cities in Australia supported the design process of the Sydenham to Bankstown project, which combined the latest research with local expertise to jointly develop practical ideas to address urban water challenges. The Sydenham to Bankstown corridor is a corridor defined by the Greater Sydney Commission's Greater Sydney Region Plan and Eastern City and South District Plans, which includes 11 centres along the Sydney Metro [...]
Klauzál Square is being renovated with rainwater collection in mind
Erzsébetváros continues on the path of sustainability - a 60 cubic meter rainwater tank has been installed underground. At the end of January, a nearly 60-cubic-metre tank was installed under the courtyard of the Klauzál Square Market Hall to collect rainwater from the roof of the hall. After purification and filtration, the water collected will be suitable for watering plants and cleaning the streets. It will be able to store approximately 2 weeks' worth of water for watering. The investm [...]
Rainwater harvesting: avoid these 7 mistakes!
Rainwater harvesting is a great way to conserve natural resources and a simple way to live a more sustainable lifestyle. But good water harvesting is not just about putting a barrel under the gutter. There are common pitfalls that gardeners, beginners and experienced alike, can encounter. This article outlines seven critical mistakes to avoid to ensure that rainwater harvesting is efficient, safe and beneficial for your garden. Error 1: Ignoring local regulations Check local laws: In some area [...]
LIFE in Runoff 2023: from gravel parking lots to a comprehensive rainwater management strategy for the Budapest
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7 green solutions for urban stormwater management
...what you need to know. Here are 7 green solutions for stormwater management that can be used in cities. The first three and seventh items on the list are often the result of central (i.e. government or local government, i.e. political) decisions or investments, and in fact only the first item is something that cannot realistically be achieved through private investment. However, all the other elements can be implemented by blocks of flats and detached family houses. It is important to no [...]
Rainwater management solutions in Barcelona
Stormwater management is a priority in urban areas, and Barcelona is no exception. Participants in the LIFE in Runoff project were able to learn about the solutions in the Spanish city during a city visit. Barcelona is a city with a rich historical and cultural heritage, but also faces many of the challenges that have accompanied the city's rapid development and growth over the last thirty years. Intense rainfall and stormwater drainage problems are common in Barcelona, which is why city leaders [...]
