Experts recommend the inclusion of rainwater-collection systems in cities

[OKIsItJustMe]

http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2011-10/f-sf-ert102411.php

Public release date: 24-Oct-2011

Contact: SINC
[e-mail]
34-914-251-820
http://www.fecyt.es/fecyt/home.do">FECYT - Spanish Foundation for Science and Technology

Experts recommend the inclusion of rainwater-collection systems in cities

Plain, sloping roofs can collect up to 50% more rainwater than flat roofs with gravel. This water is also of higher quality. These are the conclusions of a study conducted by researchers from Autonomous University of Barcelona (UAB, Spain) which suggests the incorporation of systems to collect rainwater in urban planning. The water collected can be used to water streets and gardens, wash floors or vehicles and fill cisterns.

Ramon Farreny, co-author of different projects developed by the UAB, said "It is important to consider the collection of rainwater when planning and designing cities, as this is an alternative water source with many different uses, it can even be used to save drinking water".

One such project, published in the journal Water Research, indicates that roofs "are the first choice for collecting rainwater in urban areas, but not all roofs function in the same way and it is necessary to select the most appropriate ones".

The results show that plain, sloping roofs, such as those made of metal or plastic, make it possible to collect up to 50% more rainwater than flat, rough ones. The information was obtained between 2008 and 2010 using four types of roofs on the university campus: three sloping roofs (tiled with metal and polycarbonate sheets) and one flat gravel roof.

…

http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.watres.2011.03.036
http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.resconrec.2011.01.008
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s11367-011-0330-6

[xchrom]

1. Recommend

[ProgressiveProfessor]

2. There are water rights issues with doing this in the US

Especially in the west. Doesn't mean we shouldn't look at it, but there are some legal issues that need to be addressed

[Javaman]

3. How so?

The only city that comes to mind regarding water capturing systems being "illegal" is Denver. And I think that was recently overturned.

[ProgressiveProfessor]

4. Out west in particular not everyone owns the water rights to thier property

Few anywhere own the mineral rights.

[Javaman]

5. Ahh okay, I thought you meant something completely different.

cheers!