Potential of Rainwater Harvesting in IUT Campus

Abstract

The exploration of alternate water sources and sustainable water management techniques is necessary due to the lack of available water and the rising demand for freshwater resources. A practical approach to increase water supply, ease pressure on current water sources, and encourage water conservation is rainwater harvesting (RWH). In evaluating the overall potential as a sustainable water management strategy, this thesis identifies how well it may work in a university environment. The study starts off by looking at the patterns of water demand and usage on the university campus covering both the indoor and the outdoor water uses. For determining the possible availability of rainwater the information on local climate and rainfall patterns is gathered and reviewed. In order to determine which rainwater collecting techniques are best fit for the university's infrastructure and needs, a variety of methods including rooftop collection systems, surface runoff capture, and subterranean storage are studied. Then an equation based model was develop using catchment area, coefficient of runoff and rainfall intensity from which daily runoff was calculated. Rstudio was used for data assessing, finding trends and seasonal variations. Examined as well are the environmental effects of rainwater collection, such as a decrease in the need for energy-intensive water treatment procedures and less stress on underground water supply. From October to March that is in the dry season, the amount of supplementation ranges from 0.5% to 9% of the total water demand. In April and May it is close to 10- 15%, whereas in August and September it is close to 20%. The most supplementation that can be achieved is in the months of June-July in which up to 25% of the total daily water demand can be supplemented. The results of this study provide valuable insight on the possibilities of rainwater collection as a long-term water-management strategy for IUT. The findings support efforts to conserve water and encourage sustainable practices among campus residents by helping to develop guidelines and recommendations for the implementation of rainwater harvesting systems that take into account the unique qualities and needs of the university.