Rainwater Capture Solution

 Rainwater Capture Case Study

A case study on the feasibility of rainwater capture in rural Bangladesh was conducted by Ferdausi and Bolkland out of the Netherlands. This case study will be used as a credible source of information relating to whether rainwater capture is beneficial for Bangladesh. The study claims that the average household size in rural Bangladesh is 5.48 persons with the average roofing size of 40-60 m². Of the rural households, approximately 50% have suitable roofing materials to fit the needs of a rainwater capture system. Based on these numbers, the study also presents storage volume requirements for difference rural locations in Bangladesh. Another useful aspect of the study is a presentation of the cost requirements, including materials, gutters and down-pipes. In addition, economic, technical and social considerations are presented. Important notes from these points include talks about long-term feasibility and the need for initial external support.  The study claims that while there is a high up-front cost for these systems, there is little to no continued cost and each system can last for up to 15 years. It also hints at the need for organizations, possibly NGO’s, to work with the local areas to build enthusiasm and train the users in order to ensure long-term impact. In conclusion, the case study states that rainwater capture systems are technically feasible for the 50% of the rural population with the proper roofs. In addition, the costs can be offset if external support is provided.

For more detailed information, visit the case study documented through the link provided:

http://www.bfjbrochez.be/Books/Sustainable%20Environment/Lee%20and%20Visscher%20Rainwater.pdf

NGO Involvement

As hinted in the case study, external support for both cost and training will be necessary in order for rainwater capture to be a feasible solution. This may come in the form of government subsidies or NGO support. It will be necessary no matter what for various NGO’s to be on the ground working with the rural population. Their job will be to create enthusiasm for rainwater capture as well as train the communities on how to build, use and maintain the systems. Both aspects will be crucial to sustain the solution into the future. Some of the NGO’s that may be interested in helping include: Global Water Trust, UNICEF, WaterAid and Water.org.

Drawbacks and Unintended Consequences

There are many inherent flaws with rainwater capture systems. First and foremost, storage of the water for extended periods of time may become an issue. Storing the water may present bacterial and contamination problems. This can be solved however with filters or small-scale water treatment such as iodine drops. In addition, the amount of rainwater stored during the wet season may not be sufficient for the entire dry season, in which case the users would resort back to groundwater. This would negate the efforts to recharge the groundwater during the dry season. Also, the funds for each system must be found. Using locally available materials will reduce the cost, however the each family or community may not be able to afford a system on their own. It is also an assumption that NGO's will want to be involved with this solution. While the goals of this project are in line with many of the NGO's goals, a significant effort is needed from any NGO that chooses to participate and that may deter some from joining the cause. Finally, it is an assumption that the local residents of rural Bangladesh will want these rainwater capture systems. If enthusiasm is not present from the user, this solution may not last into the future. It is the hope that the education program will build this enthusiasm along with visually seeing the benefits once the system is installed.

Time Frame

A single rainwater capture system is an easy and quick item to implement, especially on the household level. Technically, once the efforts start there could be a six month turnover. This means that many rural areas of Bangladesh could be using rainwater during the next dry season. However, this is assuming that massive efforts and organization will happen immediately which may not be the case. In addition, it may take several years to reach a significant amount of the rural population. All in all this is a short term solution that is quick and easy to implement. It is the hope that the education program will spread awareness and build enthusiasm to ensure a smooth transition to these systems. 

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