Category Archives: water conservation

water conservation

Wastewater Treatment- Stages and Process full details

1 Comment

Wastewater treatment is an area where a lot of experts have carried out in-depth research. According to The United Nations World Water Development Report (WWDR), about 80% of wastewater is released into the water bodies without proper treatment on a global scale.

In the previous blog, I showed you some innovative ways to conserve water. Today we are going to dig deeper into the journey of wastewater through a wastewater treatment plant.

In the first section, let me introduce you to the wastewater treatment process.

Wastewater Treatment Process

The method of removing pollutants from wastewater or sewage and converting it into an effluent that can be added to the water cycle is known as wastewater treatment. In wastewater treatment plants, pollutants in wastewater are reduced to a degree that nature can accommodate.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to explain what happens at each point of the treatment process and how contaminants are neutralised or removed to help keep our rivers and streams safe. 

Also check out some rainwater harvesting methods.

Wastewater Treatment Stages

Wastewater Treatment Process
Wastewater Treatment Process

As shown in the diagram, the three main stages in the treatment of wastewater are:

  • Primary Treatment
  • Secondary Treatment
  • Tertiary Treatment

Let’s analyse what happens in each of the stages in detail.

Primary Treatment of Wastewater

Wastewater reaching a treatment plant through pipes first undergoes primary treatment irrespective of its source. About 60% of the suspended solids are removed from the wastewater during primary treatment along with aeration or stirring in the water to put oxygen back. It includes the following steps:

1. Screening

  • The majority of the floating materials are removed from the wastewater using screens of 10 mm openings and settling tanks.
  • The floating materials include stone, rocks, sticks and even dead animals. Solid materials make up about a third of the wastewater. 
  • As a result, eliminating solid waste at the initial stage makes subsequent treatment procedures easier. Also, they may cause problems later in the treatment process if they are not removed.
  • Solid waste is collected and disposed of in landfills after the screening process.

2. Sedimentation

  • The sewage then flows through the grit trap or grit chamber which collects sand, cinders, and small stones at the bottom.
  • The wastewater is then directed to sedimentation ponds, settling tanks, or clarifiers after the settled grit have been removed.
  • Organic and inorganic matter, as well as suspended solids, are removed in this process.
  • The suspended particles begin to fall to the bottom and form a solid mass known as sludge.

3. Sludge Removal

  • In the sedimentation tanks, sludge (the organic solid component of the sewage) settles out of the wastewater.
  • Mechanical scrapers in the tank’s base continuously move accumulated sludge to a hopper, where it is pumped to sludge treatment facilities.
  • The thickening step removes some of the water before the sludge is processed in digesters.

4. Scum Removal

  • Lighter materials rise to the surface as sludge settles to the bottom of the sedimentation tanks.
  • Grease, oils, plastics, and soap are among the ‘scum.’
  • Scum is skimmed off the surface of the wastewater by slow-moving rakes.
  • Scum is thickened before being poured into the digesters with the sludge.

Around 90% of suspended solids, 55% of faecal coliforms, and 50% of biological oxygen demand are removed during the primary treatment process. The waste must be subjected to secondary treatment in order to be completely free of toxic substances. Let’s see how to do that.

Wastewater Treatment Stages
Source: researchgate.net

Secondary Treatment of Wastewater

  • Secondary wastewater treatment is designed to significantly degrade the biological content of the waste by aerobic biological processes, and it operates at a deeper level than primary treatment.
  • During secondary wastewater treatment, about 85% of the organic matter in sewage is eliminated.
  • The method entails combining the wastewater with bacteria and oxygen at high pressures.
  • Bacteria digest organic matter with the aid of oxygen.

Secondary wastewater treatment reduces common biodegradable pollutants to acceptable levels, allowing for cleaner release into the nearby water bodies. It is done in one of three ways:

1. Biofiltration

Sand filters, contact filters, and trickling filters are used in biofiltration to ensure that any excess sediment is extracted from the wastewater.

  • A trickling filter consists of a bed of stones that is about 6 feet tall.
  • Sewage coming out of the sedimentation tank is permitted to pass through this stone sheet.
  •  The bacteria congregate on these stones and begin to multiply and evolve until all of the organic matter in the sewage has been consumed.
  • Following the process, the clean water is piped out and directed to another sedimentation tank.

2. Oxidation Ponds

  • Oxidation ponds, also known as lagoons or stabilisation ponds, are large, shallow ponds that use the interaction of sunlight, bacteria, and algae to treat wastewater.
  • Algae use the sun’s energy, as well as carbon dioxide and inorganic compounds released by bacteria in the water, to grow.
  • During photosynthesis, algae release oxygen, which is needed by aerobic bacteria. 
  • Mechanical aerators are often used to provide even more oxygen, reducing the size of the pond needed.
  • Dredging is needed to remove sludge deposits in the pond.
  • Filtration or a combination of chemical treatment and settling will kill any residual algae in the pond effluent.

3. Activated Sludge Process

  • The air and sludge are allowed to come into close contact with the bacteria during this process and then passed into the settling tank.
  •  The sewage from the settling tank is first sent to an aeration tank, where bacteria are added to the air and sludge.
  • The entire setup is left alone for several hours, during which time the bacteria decompose the organic matter into toxic by-products. 
  • The sludge, which has been activated by billions of bacteria, is returned to the aeration tank to handle fresh sewage.
  • The previously treated wastewater is pumped to the sedimentation tank, which filters out any bacteria.

We have seen the primary and secondary treatment of wastewater. Now it’s time to see what happens in the tertiary treatment of wastewater.

Tertiary Treatment of Wastewater

The aim of tertiary wastewater treatment is to improve the water’s quality to meet domestic and industrial standards, as well as to meet specific criteria for water discharge safety. It can be done by ion exchange, reverse osmosis, chemical precipitation, membrane filtration etc. In the case of municipally treated water, the tertiary treatment also includes the elimination of bacteria, ensuring that the water is safe to drink.

In some cases, quaternary treatment is also done. This stage deals with contamination levels of a few parts per million to billions of parts per billion, and it often includes oxidation or fine filtration.

Wastewater Treatment
Wastewater Treatment

Shall we wrap up?

Conclusion

Wastewater treatment refers to the purification of sewage from various sources and converting it into a reusable form. It involves mainly 3 stages namely primary, secondary and tertiary.

Primary treatment involves screening, sedimentation, sludge and scum removal. Secondary treatment deals with the removal of biological contaminants using oxidation ponds, trickling filters or activated sludge process. Finally, the Tertiary treatment converts water into a reusable form.

The management of wastewater is inextricably related to the availability of clean and adequate water sources. Far from being anything to discard or neglect, wastewater will play an important role in meeting the increasing water demand in rapidly expanding cities, improving energy production and industrial growth, and promoting sustainable agriculture.

Also see : Concepts of green building – 4 comprehensive concepts explained.

green building, water conservation

Ways to conserve water – 15 innovative and easy techniques.

4 Comments

Ways to conserve water is a quite relevant topic in the digital era. World population is exploding and the need for water is skyrocketing. It is even said that the next world war will be for water. In the crunchy situation, you don’t need me to tell you why it’s relevant to save water. Out of the existing methods, some are very sophisticated while some needs improvisations. Through the post, we are going to explore existing techniques to conserve water by digging deep.

1. Make effective use of soil water reserves

Method of water conservation in a field
Method of water conservation in a field

How many times did you have goozebumps looking at nature?

True. Be smart like nature. Soil and water conservation methods include planting deeper rooting crops, such as grasses or cereals that will leverage soil water reserves more effectively than shallower rooting crops such as vegetable crops and therefore can be grown in drier period.

2. Take measures to avoid run off

An important part of different ways to conserve water is avoiding spilling out. When it comes to water, the part played is runoff. This is equally important as the ways to conserve water resources. The various types of run-off management are those increase water intake and storage and so reduce runoff, control water movement over the soil surface, dispose safely of the excess rainfall as runoff or concentrate inadequate rainfall runoff. Remedial measures such as incorporating plantings especially in areas where runoff collects protecting trees that help absorb and filter runoff, choosing permeable materials for pathways etc. can potentially contribute to reducing runoff.

3. Cheap Ways to Conserve Water- Use Rainwater Effectively

Well, here you need to be very systematic. Check out the full article on ways to conserve water here: RAINWATER HARVESTING METHODS; EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW

4. Rational Use of Groundwater

We should always bear in mind that groundwater is a candy that should not be consumed uncontrollably. Because it takes time to recharge it back to its initial level. Only by conscientious exploitation of groundwater can it be proportionately conserved. For this to happen, ways to conserve water from ground water conservation methods such as crops requiring less water given priority over crops requiring more water need to be considered. Less water should be used by industries. The necessary drainage area should also be made available for recharging ground water.

5. Redistribution of Water– must use ways to conserve water

Two boys carrying water in a can which represents the significance of redistribution of water

Sharing is a great habit that benefits all who are involved in it. Whether it’s knowledge, love, physical goods, anything, right? That’s exactly what it takes to turn the cries of people around the world for water into a smile of gratification. Extensive re-wiring of the supply of water in water conservation system from areas with lower demand to areas with higher demand is needed.

How do you do that?

This can be accomplished through the development of water reservoirs and a network of canals. Excess rainwater that flows away from rivers without being used can be stored by the construction of water reservoirs from which it can be supplied for agriculture, industry, urban areas, etc. These reservoirs are also designed to protect against flooding and, apart from flood protection, they can also be used for a variety of purposes. Water distribution is also possible through the canal system. The canal system transfers water from excess rainwater to scarce rainwater areas and conserves water for various purposes.

Now we have seen 5 ways to conserve water. But we are yet to hit some more wonderful ways to save on water. Moving on…

6. Protection of Water from Pollution

A water body is seen polluted by industrial waste

Pollution is a taboo that has disturbed our ears since the day we can remember. Activities such as disposing of different wastes without treatment in rivers, pollution caused by tourism on lakes and sea coasts, bathing and other similar activities in the vicinity of drinking water sources and Weeds produced in water are the main causes of water pollution.

So how to reduce water pollution?

There is a need for a cooperative policy at international level for conservation of water bodies by regulating oil and nuclear waste in the oceans. Water should become reusable after physical, chemical, mechanical and organic processing processes, and lakes should not be used as outlets for the transport of products.

7. Traditional ways to conserve water

Water flow from a pipe made of bamboo below which is a plant, that represents a traditional water conservation method
TRADITIONAL WATER CONSERVATION METHOD

One of the fascinating practices in every culture is that they have developed innovative techniques for all necessary human needs. Water conservation is no exception to this. If so, then can you think about how would it be in India, the land of diversities.

Traditional ways to conserve water in India are,

a) Bamboo Drip Irrigation System

Bamboo is too expensive to use for a low cost building but is a boon for people of Meghalaya. Because, they have been leveraging it for ways to conserve water in India. This system of water conservation is a brilliant drip irrigation system. It uses bamboo of various sizes and reduces the output to 20-80 drops per minute, which is excellent for betel leaf and black pepper crops.

b) Johads

Johad is a crescent shaped small check dam built from earth and rock to intercept and conserve rainwater in Rajasthan. This helps to improve percolation and increases groundwater recharge.

c) Kul

Kuls are diversion channels that carry water from a glacier to village. Often spanning long distances, with some over 10 km long, kuls have been around for centuries. They are the lifeline of people of Spiti valley of Himachal Pradesh and in Jammu too.

d) Eri

One of the oldest water conservation systems in India of Tamil Nadu is still widely used around the State. With over a third of irrigation in the State being made possible due to Eri, the traditional water harvesting system plays an important part in the agriculture. They also have other advantages such as prevention of soil erosion, recharge of groundwater, and flood control.

e) Zabo

This method of conservation of water in India is a unique combination with animal care, forests and agriculture. Mostly practised in Nagaland, Zabo is used to deal with a lack of drinking water supply. During monsoon, rainwater that falls on the hilltops is collected into the pond like structures that are carved out on the hillsides. The water is then passed onto cattle yards below from where the water enters the paddy fields rich in manure.

See, such still in use water conservation model that tells the beautiful story of water use and conservation doesn’t have copyright and patent problems. It’s open to the whole world. So why can’t we be inspired by them and use suitable conservation method of water in our own lives?

8. Use of Modern ways to conserve water

On average, 80 percent of the fresh water withdrawn from rivers and groundwater is used to produce food and other agricultural products. Therefore, we need to pay attention to improved ways of irrigation such as sprinkler and drip irrigation that save 50 per cent water.

In the drip irrigation method, the hole pipes are spread over the surface of the soil so that the crop receives water directly. There is no loss due to evaporation and approximately 95% water is used. This process therefore uses maximum water.

9. Increasing Forest Cover

According to recent reports, forests cover 31 percent of the world’s land surface, just over 4 billion hectares which is down from the pre-industrial area of 5.9 billion hectare. This needs to be addressed since trees bear drought conditions for a long duration as compared to crops and they are helpful in reducing the demand for water along with recharging water sources.

10. Flood Management

A family isolated in a building due to flood which shows why flood management is important
FLOOD MANAGEMENT

Floods carry with it harmful contaminants such as soil, animal waste, salt, pesticides, and oil which can potentially impact drinking water wells and water quality. By construction of embankments and canals, a large part of the land can be conserved besides minimizing flood losses. Intensive afforestation can also provide security from floods which will be helpful in the absorption of water in the soil.

After such disasters, construction of green building aided by eco friendly materials are preferred. Because they are built with all necessary measures for water conservation.

11. Conserving Water in Industries

Water has to be re-used after processing. Recycling of water should be developed because normally industrial units dispose off water on the ground surface after using it only once. Because of not re-using it after processing, it also pollutes other water sources. Water demand can also be reduced by recycling used water in industries.

12. Reuse of Urban Waste

Demand for water has increased in cities due to increasing urbanization. There is no provision for waste water treatment in many cities of various countries of the world. After use of water in urban areas, disposed waste water can be treated and conserved for use in agriculture in the peripheral areas of cities. Such policies should be incorporated while planning urban development.

13. Population Control

The world’s population is growing by approximately 80 million people every year. Changes in lifestyles and eating habits in recent years require more per- capita water consumption. Biofuel production has also increased sharply in recent years, with a significant impact on the demand for water. It’s obvious that a controlled population can avoid a tug of war for water by reducing the demand as well as the quali­tative deterioration of water.

14. Water conservation by Municipal bodies

According to the World Economic Forum’s 2015 Global Risk report, around one third of the global population is currently water stressed, with about one billion people not getting safe drinking water. the water crisis is perceived as a top-order threat. In this nerve wracking situation, a governing body is indeed and they should exhort awareness on how to conserve water and capacity building among people.

15. Use of water from hot waterfalls

Figure shows a water fall that are used as a water source
WATER FALL CAN BE USED AS A SOURCE

Scientifically, there are hypotheses that negative ions that are present in waterfalls increase serotonin levels, which ultimately enhances our mood. Wah! That’s great. And this geothermal water serves as a source too in the battle against water scarcity.

So, ready to stand together with the world to avoid the next world war?

Tell us what you think about it in comments.

MUST READ: Vastu for home plan- all design tips backed by logic

water conservation

Innovative Water Conservation Methods Unlocked.

15 Comments

Water conservation methods- What is the need of selecting suitable one?

paani, thanni, vellam, mool, naam plao, neu- uhck… whatever the world calls it by, the necessity and utility of water remains fixed.

Let’s ask the inevitable before diving in to methods for water conservation

What are water conservation methods?

Water conservation methods are techniques to use water efficiently to reduce unnecessary water use.

“Save water, dave the world.” Remember the number of slogans and posters you used to have fun with, when you were a kid? Let’s give a quick look at why we had to do all that (except for scores)

Importance of water conservation methods

The figure shows a girl holding a poster that highlights the importance of water conservation

Regardless of the method of conservation of water, every method stands by the following points;

1) To ensure availability for future generations, the withdrawal of fresh water from an ecosystem should not exceed its natural replacement rate.

2) To save the significant amount of energy needed for water pumping, delivery, and wastewater treatment facilities

3) To preserve fresh water habitats for local wildlife and migrating water flow, as well as reducing the need to build new dams and other water diversion infrastructure.

4) To save money on the utility bills

5) To extend the life of your septic system by reducing soil saturation and reducing pollution due to leaks

You got an idea on why is water conservation necessary. So let’s get our hands into each method for water conservation.

Major water conservation methods

There is a variety of methods of water conservation. We are going to meet some majors here.

The figure shows a method of water conservation in a field

1. Make effective use of soil water reserves

How many times did you have goozebumps looking at nature?

True. Be smart like nature. Soil and water conservation methods include planting deeper rooting crops, such as grasses or cereals that will leverage soil water reserves more effectively than shallower rooting crops such as vegetable crops and therefore can be grown in drier period.

2. Take measures to avoid run off

An important part of conserving anything is avoiding spilling out. When it comes to water, the part played is runoff. This is equally important as the conservation methods of water resources.   The various types of run-off management are those increase water intake and storage and so reduce runoff, control water movement over the soil surface, dispose safely of the excess rainfall as runoff or concentrate inadequate rainfall runoff. Remedial measures such as incorporating plantings especially in areas where runoff collects protecting trees that help absorb and filter runoff, choosing permeable materials for pathways etc. can potentially contribute to reduce run off.

3. Use rainwater effectively

Well, here you need to be very systematic. Check out the full article on rain water conservation methods here: RAINWATER HARVESTING; EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW

4. Rational Use of Groundwater

We should always bear in mind that groundwater is a candy that should not be consumed uncontrollably. Because it takes time to recharge it back to its initial level. Only by conscientious exploitation of groundwater can it be proportionately conserved. For this to happen, ground water conservation methods such as crops requiring less water given priority over crops requiring more water need to be considered. Less water should be used by industries. The necessary drainage area should also be made available for recharging ground water.

5. Redistribution of Water

Two boys carrying water in a can which represents the significance of redistribution of water

Sharing is a great habit that benefits all who are involved in it. Whether it’s knowledge, love, physical goods, anything, right? That’s exactly what it takes to turn the cries of people around the world for water into a smile of gratification. Extensive re-wiring of the supply of water in water conservation system from areas with lower demand to areas with higher demand is needed.

How do you do that?

This can be accomplished through the development of water reservoirs and a network of canals. Excess rainwater that flows away from rivers without being used can be stored by the construction of water reservoirs from which it can be supplied for agriculture, industry, urban areas, etc. These reservoirs are also designed to protect against flooding and, apart from flood protection, they can also be used for a variety of purposes. Water distribution is also possible through the canal system. The canal system transfers water from excess rainwater to scarce rainwater areas and conserves water for various purposes.

Now we have seen 5 methods of water conservation. But we are yet to hit some more wonderful ways to save on water. Moving on…

6. Protection of Water from Pollution

A water body is seen polluted by industrial waste

Pollution is a taboo that has disturbed our ears since the day we can remember. Activities such as disposing of different wastes without treatment in rivers, pollution caused by tourism on lakes and sea coasts, bathing and other similar activities in the vicinity of drinking water sources and Weeds produced in water are the main causes of water pollution.

So how to reduce water pollution?

There is a need for a cooperative policy at international level for conservation of water bodies by regulating oil and nuclear waste in the oceans. Water should become reusable after physical, chemical, mechanical and organic processing processes, and lakes should not be used as outlets for the transport of products.

7. Traditional Water Conservation Methods

Water flow from a pipe made of bamboo below which is a plant, that represents a traditional water conservation method

One of the fascinating practices in every culture is that they have developed innovative techniques for all necessary human needs. Water conservation is no exception to this. If so, then can you think about how would it be in India, the land of diversities.

Traditional water conservation methods in India are,

a) Bamboo Drip Irrigation System

Bamboo is too expensive to use for a low- cost building, but is a boon for people of Meghalaya. Because, they have been leveraging it for water conservation methods in India. This system of water conservation is a brilliant drip irrigation system. It uses bamboo of various sizes and reduces the output to 20-80 drops per minute, which is excellent for betel leaf and black pepper crops.

b) Johads

Johad is a crescent shaped small check dam built from earth and rock to intercept and conserve rainwater in Rajasthan. This helps to improve percolation and increases groundwater recharge.

c) Kul

Kuls are diversion channels that carry water from a glacier to village. Often spanning long distances, with some over 10 km long, kuls have been around for centuries. They are the lifeline of people of Spiti valley of Himachal Pradesh and in Jammu too.

d) Eri

One of the oldest water conservation systems in India of Tamil Nadu is still widely used around the State. With over a third of irrigation in the State being made possible due to Eri, the traditional water harvesting system plays an important part in the agriculture. They also have other advantages such as prevention of soil erosion, recharge of groundwater, and flood control.

e) Zabo

This method of conservation of water in India is a unique combination with animal care, forests and agriculture. Mostly practised in Nagaland, Zabo is used to deal with a lack of drinking water supply. During monsoon, rainwater that falls on the hilltops is collected into the pond like structures that are carved out on the hillsides. The water is then passed onto cattle yards below from where the water enters the paddy fields rich in manure.

See, such still in use water conservation model that tells the beautiful story of water use and conservation doesn’t have copyright and patent problems. It’s open to the whole world. So why can’t we be inspired by them and use suitable conservation method of water in our own lives?

8. Use of Modern Irrigation Methods

On average, 80 percent of the fresh water withdrawn from rivers and groundwater is used to produce food and other agricultural products. Therefore, we need to pay attention to improved methods of irrigation such as sprinkler and drip irrigation that save 50 per cent water.

In the drip irrigation method, the hole pipes are spread over the surface of the soil so that the crop receives water directly. There is no loss due to evaporation and approximately 95% water is used. This process therefore uses maximum water.

9. Increasing Forest Cover

According to recent reports, forests cover 31 percent of the world’s land surface, just over 4 billion hectares which is down from the pre-industrial area of 5.9 billion hectare. This needs to be addressed since trees bear drought conditions for a long duration as compared to crops and they are helpful in reducing the demand for water along with recharging water sources.

10. Flood Management

A family isolated in a building due to flood which shows why flood management is important

Floods carry with it harmful contaminants such as soil, animal waste, salt, pesticides, and oil which can potentially impact drinking water wells and water quality. By construction of embankments and canals a large part of land can be conserved besides minimizing flood losses. Intensive afforestation can also provide security from floods which will be helpful in absorption of water in the soil.

After such disasters, construction of green buildings aided by eco- friendly materials are preferred. Because they are built with all necessary measures for water conservation.

11. Conserving Water in Industries

Water has to be re-used after processing. Recycling of water should be developed because normally industrial units dispose off water on the ground surface after using it only once. Because of not re-using it after processing, it also pollutes other water sources. Water demand can also be reduced by recycling used water in industries.

12. Reuse of Urban Waste

Demand for water has increased in cities due to increasing urbanization. There is no provision for waste water treatment in many cities of various countries of the world. After use of water in urban areas, disposed waste water can be treated and conserved for use in agriculture in the peripheral areas of cities. Such policies should be incorporated while planning urban development.

13. Population Control

The world’s population is growing by approximately 80 million people every year. Changes in lifestyles and eating habits in recent years require more per- capita water consumption. Biofuel production has also increased sharply in recent years, with a significant impact on the demand for water. It’s obvious that a controlled population can avoid a tug of war for water by reducing the demand as well as the quali­tative deterioration of water.

14. Water conservation by Municipal bodies

According to the World Economic Forum’s 2015 Global Risk report, around one third of the global population is currently water stressed, with about one billion people not getting safe drinking water. the water crisis is perceived as a top-order threat. In this nerve wracking situation, a governing body is indeed and they should exhort awareness on how to conserve water and capacity building among people.

15. Use of water from hot waterfalls

Figure shows a water fall that are used as a water source

Scientifically, there are hypotheses that negative ions that are present in waterfalls increase serotonin levels, which ultimately enhances our mood. Wah! That’s great. And this geothermal water serves as a source too in the battle against water scarcity.

Now let’s sneak into the fun and exciting section which introduces the brand new updates on the topic.

WHAT’S TRENDING:

  • Geographic Information System (GIS), a computer system capable of holding and using data describing places on earth surface has been found to be applicable to monitor ground water resources as well as to ensure water availability in remote and rural villages.
  • Artificial intelligence(AI) can be leveraged for optimal usage of ground water which prevents over depletion of water table. Government has linked port with IBM India for undertaking pilot study to utilise AI and weather technology for developing navel features like soil sensor to avoid over irrigation
  • Biotechnology, a significant branch that contributes to COVID-19, has been successful to develop drought tolerant crops and salt tolerant crops that saves water for irrigation
  • Space technology helps through advent of hydrological mapping via satellite, weather forecasting that reduce uses of water in agriculture
  • Electrostatic precipitates, ionic filter and pipe that precipitates organic and inorganic pollutants at the discharge and groundwater recharging technology helps to save water at home

Now let me give you a water conservation tip. If you still feel like lazing out to adopt any conservation method of water, try to imagine a day without water!

Vincivil FAQ Corner:

1. Define water conservation

Water conservation refers to the preservation, control and development of water resources, both surface and groundwater, and prevention of pollution. The extent to which conservation is possible depends on the types of water conservation methods.

2. Water conservation methods at home

Use of water-saving dishwashers and clothes washers, installation of water saving shower heads or flow restrictors, taking shorter showers, checking your toilet for leaks are best solutions on how to save water at home.

3. Water conservation methods in agriculture

Making sure of the quality of soil, crop rotation practices, installation of better watering systems, storing of rain water and optimal usage are robust water conservation methods for agriculture.

4. 10 ways to conserve water

Conservation awareness, using less water when doing laundry, planting native plant species in your yard, turning off water when brushing your teeth, tracking cooling tower water, repairing leaks, having a home energy audit, installing faucet aerators, wait until you have a full dishwasher to operate the unit and reducing overuse of water are 10 recommended strategies for water conservation.

water conservation

RAINWATER HARVESTING METHODS-EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW

13 Comments

Rainwater harvesting methods are the processes in which precipitation that falls on a site is diverted, captured, and stored for use on-site, as opposed to allowing it to run off, evaporate, or infiltrate into the soil. Let’s get to know it in the best way through the course of journey in the blog.

 “Slanting silver ropes slammed into loose earth, plowing it up like gunfire”- When Arundhati Roy described the rain as beautifully like this, how many of us thought we are taking the boon of no cost from nature. It’s high time that we understood the worth of various rainwater harvesting methods in our lives.                     

Let’s start from scratch.

How rainwater harvesting methods are important?

This is a sad story of ground water. It all started with the over population. water supply agencies became unable to cope up demand from surface sources like dams, reservoirs, rivers etc. They resorted to ground water sources by digging tube-wells in order to augment the water supply. Indiscriminate exploitation of ground water resulted in lowering of water table rendering many bore-wells dry. To overcome this, we started to drill bore wells to greater depths. The exploitation of ground water in brutal unscientific methods by soft drinks, mineral water and similar industries further declined ground water table. The solution to all these problems is to replenish ground water bodies with water conservation like leveraging rain water by man made means.

That’s it. And we are here to know the hero of the story, Rain water to solve all these issues.

Let’s look at its components now.

Components of rainwater harvesting methods

Rainwater conservation is a must need element of every green building. Let’s see the components below.

1. Catchment area

The catchment area is the surface on which the rain water falls. This may be a roof top or open area around the building.

2. Coarse mesh / leaf screen

To prevent the entry of leaves and other debris in the system, the coarse mesh should be provided at the mouth of inflow pipe for flat roofs

3. Gutter

Gutter is required to be used for collecting rainwater from sloping roof and to divert it to downspout. These are the channels all around the edge of a sloping roof to collect and transport rain water to the storage tank.

4. Down spout or conduit

The rain water collected on the roof top is transported down to storage facility through down spouts / conduits. Conduits can be of any material like PVC, GI or cast iron.

5. First flushing device

A first flush system is incorporated in the rooftop to harvest rainwater by avoiding all the debris, dirt, and other contaminants especially bird dropping, etc. accumulated on the roof during the dry season. The first flushing device, dispose of the first spell of rainwater so that it does not enter the system.

6. Filter

The filter unit is basically a chamber filled with filtering media such as fiber, coarse sand and gravel layers to remove debris and dirt from water before it enters the storage tank.

7. Settlement tank

The settlement tank facilitates the settling down of suspended materials like silt and other floating impurities before the water recharge the aquifer.

8. Storage tank

Storage tanks are used when the water from the rain water harvesting is used directly for various purposes.

Okay. That’s done. Now we are getting into the important part which is how to make rainwater harvesting.

RAINWATER HARVESTING METHODS- DETAILED

1. Storing rain water for direct use

Fig. Storing rainwater for direct use

In place where the rains occur throughout the year, rain water can be stored in tanks However, at places where rains are for 2 to 3 months, huge volume of storage tanks would have to be provided. In such places, it will be more appropriate to use rain water to recharge ground water aquifers rather than to go for storage. If the strata is impermeable, then storing rain water in storage tanks for direct use is a better method. Similarly, if the ground water is saline/unfit for human consumption or ground water table is very deep, this is one of the best rain water harvesting methods that can be applied.

2. Recharging groundwater aquifers, from rooftop runoff

Fig. Recharging ground water aquifers from roof top run off

In this groundwater harvesting, rain water that is collected on the roof top of the building may be diverted by drain pipes to a filtration tank from which it flows into the recharge well. The recharge well should preferably be shallower than the water table. This method of rain water harvesting is preferable in the areas where the rainfall occurs only for a short period in a year and water table is at a shallow depth.

Alright. That’s it about second in the list of rainwater harvesting methods. How to increase groundwater level further?

3. Recharging groundwater aquifers with runoff from the ground area

Fig. Recharging ground water aquifers with runoff from ground areas

The rain water that is collected from the open areas may be diverted by drain pipes to a recharge dug well / bore well through filter tanks. The abandoned bore well/dug well can be used cost effectively for this purpose.

Now you have become a savvy in rain water harvesting methods. But this is not all. Even if you have completed all the procedures with at most care, precautions should be taken to ensure quality of water. Let’s see them.

1. Roof over which water falls, should be cleaned before rain fall.

2. The suitable type of first flushing device to be installed and initial 10 to 15 minutes of runoff should be diverted.

3. The water collected from roof top only, should be stored in storage tank for direct use.

4. The runoff from surface/ground should be preferably be used for recharging ground water aquifers after proper filtration.

5. The rain water collected from roof top should pass through suitable type of filter and only then it should be stored in storage tank / used for recharging ground water aquifers.

We are almost near of completion. its time to look at the results of your efforts.

Advantages of rain water harvesting methods are,

 (a) Promotes adequacy of underground water

 (b) Mitigates the effect of drought

(c) Reduces soil erosion as surface run-off is reduced

(d) Decreases load on storm water disposal system

(e) Reduces flood hazards

(f) Improves ground water quality / decreases salinity (by dilution)

(g) Prevents ingress of sea water in subsurface aquifers in coastal areas 6

(h) Saving rainwater improves ground water table, thus saving energy (to lift water)

(i) The cost of recharging subsurface aquifer is lower than surface reservoirs

(j) The subsurface aquifer also serves as storage and distribution system

(k) No land is wasted for storage purpose and no population displacement is involved

(l) Storing water underground is environment friendly

But all these doesn’t earn you a penny. Below are the points that illustrates how rain water harvesting methods can add to your pockets.

Energy savings

  • Rainwater collector systems are typically designed to be gravity fed.
  • Storage areas are typically lower elevation, so a pumping system is generally required for intended reuse.
  • Since collected rainwater is generally used close to its capture, the energy needed to convey the water tends to be minimal.
  • Compared to conveyance from other supplied sources of water rainwater harvesting methods would likely have lower energy costs.
  • Systems are simple and tend to be robust. Monitoring and maintenance require additional effort. This includes maintenance of roofs used as collection areas, cleaning of gutters, maintenance of storage tanks and vaults, puumps and maintenance of water treatment systems

Water savings

  • A reasonable goal for an aggressive rooftop collection for a custom building could be to reduce domestic water supply by 40 to 50% for that building; this would then allow the building to meet LEED goals for sewage reduction.

Well… limitations too are important to see if it’s worth trying.

Happy to see the cost savings? Then you should definitely check out A BUILDING AT ZERO COST!!

Disadvantages of rain water harvesting methods are,

  • Unpredictable Rainfall
  • Initial High Cost
  • Regular Maintenance
  • Certain Roof Types may Seep Chemicals or Animal Droppings
  • Storage Limits

Now, it’s up to your decision on which of the above rainwater harvesting methods you want to adopt. But I would say this is an offer you can’t refuse.

Vincivil FAQ CORNER

What is the main purpose of rainwater harvesting methods?

The main aim of rainwater harvesting methods is to use locally available rainwater to meet water needs during the year without the need for major capital expenditure.

How to catch rainwater?

The rain would accumulate in the gutters that would funnel the water into the downpours and then into some kind of storage vessel. Rainwater collection systems can be as easy as gathering rain in a rain barrel or as complex as storing rainwater in large cisterns to supply your entire household demand.

How rainwater harvesting methods are done?

Rainwater harvesting methods extract the run-off from a building or other impervious surface to be preserved for later use . The rain would accumulate in the gutters that would funnel the water into the downpours and then into some kind of storage vessel.

How rainwater harvesting methods work?

Rainwater collection systems collect rainwater by transferring it from large surfaces to underground or overground storage tanks. The rainwater harvested is filtered and then pumped directly to the appliances or header tank.

What are the rainwater harvesting methods at home?

There are several techniques such as Storage of direct use, recharging groundwater aquifers, recharging of bore wells, recharge pits, soakway or recharge shafts, recharging of dug wells etc.

How do you make a rainwater harvesting pit?

Excavation is to be performed before soft dirt, weathered rock or fracture is reached.   You need jelly of different sizes and sand at the top of the pit. The big jelly at the bottom creates large gaps for the water to pass through.

What are the two important rainwater harvesting methods?

Surface runoff harvesting and rooftop rainwater harvesting are the main two methods of rain water harvesting.

What are the main uses of rainwater harvesting methods?

  • Non-potable uses, such as toilet flushing, irrigation, dust control, and vehicle washing. Some of these applications may require specialized plumbing.
  • Potable water uses including drinking water, food preparation, showering, and washing.