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TitleRainwater harvesting for non-potable use and evidence of risk posed to human health
Publication TypeMiscellaneous
Year of Publication2011
AuthorsStruck, S
Pagination17 p., 4 tab.,
Date Published2011-10-01
PublisherBritish Columbia Centre for Disease Control, BCCDC
Place PublishedVancouver, BC, Canada
Keywordshealth hazards, microbiological analysis, rainwater harvesting, toxic substances, water-related diseases
Abstract

While collecting and storing rainwater for use is an ancient practice, there has been a resurgence in popularity with the promotion of green and sustainable building practices, such as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED), and in areas where water insecurity or lack of municipal supply make it an attractive or necessary supplement or alternative. One of the features of LEED certification is assessing water efficiency, whereby points are granted; e.g., if the use of potable water is reduced or eliminated for activities such as landscape irrigation. A benefit of implementing rainwater collection is that the demand for potable water supplied from municipal sources can be reduced. In water stressed areas, homes and commercial buildings are often outfitted with roof collection systems to capture rainfall runoff that can be diverted to storage for later use. While rainwater harvesting is used for both potable and non-potable purposes, this paper will primarily focus on potential health risks of rainwater reuse for non-potable applications, namely: spray irrigation, use in fountains, toilet and urinal flushing). Also, while rainwater can be collected from other surfaces, such as courtyards, streets, and other impermeable surfaces, the focus is on roof-collected and therefore the discussion on contaminants will concentrate on those found primarily in roof-harvested rainwater.[Author's Abstract]

NotesBibliography on p.15-17
Custom 1213.1

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