Rainwater is a valuable resource that can be used for a variety of purposes. It is important to collect and store it properly to ensure that it is safe for use. Rainwater harvesting is the scientific process through which we can collect rainwater and use it for different purposes.
Uses of Rainwater
The followings are the uses of rainwater:
1. Drinking and Cooking Purposes
Rainwater is one of the safest natural drinking water sources if collected and stored properly in clean containers. Surface runoff contains dust and humic substances that the water came in contact with during collection. Only the precipitation falling from the sky after the first flush should be considered for drinking directly, not the surface runoff without proper treatment.
2. Irrigation
Rainwater is mostly free from harmful chemicals. Hence if it is used for irrigation, it will save groundwater levels from diminishing rapidly.
3. Gardening
As rainwater is a non-chlorinated natural source, it is free from toxic substances like trihalomethanes. So, rainwater is good for plants or gardening purposes.
4. Toilet flush, washing, and cleaning
These activities require a considerable amount of water. Rainwater without treatment can be used for these.
5. Car Washing
Washing cars with rainwater is considered environmentally friendly as it does not pollute groundwater.
6. Aquariums
Aquariums can be filled with rainwater as it does not contain chemicals that can harm aquatic creatures.
7. Firefighting
Rainwater can be used for firefighting as it does not contain chemicals that will react with the firefighting foam.
8. Industry
In industries, rainwater can be used for cooling towers, boiler feedwater, process water, and washing.
9. Construction
In construction sites, rainwater can be used for mixing concrete, brick making, and dust suppression.
10. Sanitary Purposes
In some areas, rainwater is the only source of water available for sanitary purposes.
11. Wastewater Treatment
Rainwater can be used in wastewater treatment plants to supplement the water needed for the treatment process.
12. Aquaculture
Rainwater can be used in aquaculture farms to rear fish and other aquatic creatures.
13. Drinking Water for Animals
Rainwater can be used as drinking water for animals.
14. Miscellaneous
Other uses of rainwater include laundry, washing vehicles, and general cleaning purposes.
Related Articles:
- What is Rainwater Harvesting?
- Methods of Rainwater Harvesting
- Importance of Rainwater Harvesting
- Advantages and Disadvantages of Rainwater Harvesting