What is a rainwater harvesting system and what are its benefits?
A rainwater harvesting system is composed of a water collection system, a storage cistern and a water distribution system. The cisterns and any manholes or openings to them should be water tight with smooth interior surfaces. Cisterns see their greatest use in rural applications, especially with “green home? projects. In most cases the water collected is not used for drinking, but in some countries where natural rainfall is low, collected rainwater is often used for drinking. Modern benefits include reduced use of treated municipal water for landscape irrigation and other non potable needs, reduced need for a well, and a reduction in peak storm water volume.
