One of the easiest ways to save water is to simply collect it, and that’s a practice that is referred to as rainwater harvesting.

Rainwater harvesting is essentially the collection of rainwater in large tanks (like a cistern) that’s then transferred to containers until it’s needed for use. In most cases, the water is used directly from these containers without being purified or filtered.

This practise first became popular as a method to collect and store water in areas where water shortages are common. But, given its many benefits, it has now become extremely common with anyone who’s looking for a free, easy and more environmentally friendly way of using water in their home or commercial premises.

Rainwater harvesting is so important for lots of different reasons, with the following being just a few of them;

You’ll have water when you need it

Non-potable water has many uses; you can use it to flush the toilet, water your flowers and wash your car etc. Harvesting rainwater will ensure that you always have water for these tasks, even in times when the normal water supply is cut off.

Rainwater is better for the garden

Nature has relied on rainwater for its growth for millions of years and that still remains the case, even today. Water your plants and flowers with rainwater that’s relatively pure and free from toxins and it will flourish.

It is superb for irrigation

The collected water reduces flooding and decreases soil erosion by decreasing the likelihood of run offs during periods of heavy rainfall. This is good news for our rivers, streams, oceans and lakes, as they will be less polluted over time.

It’s super easy to install

Getting your rainwater harvesting system set up is super easy and very cost effective. All you’ll need is a system that will collect the water, some storage tanks and a tap or pipe system that will give you quick access to the water once it’s collected. A very easy way to collect rainwater is to direct the rain that collects in your roof’s gutters into a storage tank where it can be then transferred into smaller containers – it’s that easy!

It is a more sustainable practice

Using harvested rainwater is a brilliant way of lessening your carbon footprint and living in a more environmentally friendly way. Wasting perfectly clean potable water to do things like water plants and flush toilets isn’t a sustainable practice, and it should be avoided if possible.

It is much more sustainable to use water from the tap for cooking and drinking, and use your harvested rainwater for everything else.

Rainwater harvesters are winning

There are endless reasons why collecting rainwater is essential, from doing your part for the environment and saving money on bills to having access to water all of the time.

Getting started takes no time at all and doesn’t cost much so why not start off 2018 on a really positive note? Your garden, your pocket and our environment will thank you for it!