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Search Results (333)

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Keywords = rainwater potential

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30 pages, 4529 KiB  
Article
Rainwater Harvesting Site Assessment Using Geospatial Technologies in a Semi-Arid Region: Toward Water Sustainability
by Ban AL- Hasani, Mawada Abdellatif, Iacopo Carnacina, Clare Harris, Bashar F. Maaroof and Salah L. Zubaidi
Water 2025, 17(15), 2317; https://doi.org/10.3390/w17152317 - 4 Aug 2025
Viewed by 118
Abstract
Rainwater harvesting for sustainable agriculture (RWHSA) offers a viable and eco-friendly strategy to alleviate water scarcity in semi-arid regions, particularly for agricultural use. This study aims to identify optimal sites for implementing RWH systems in northern Iraq to enhance water availability and promote [...] Read more.
Rainwater harvesting for sustainable agriculture (RWHSA) offers a viable and eco-friendly strategy to alleviate water scarcity in semi-arid regions, particularly for agricultural use. This study aims to identify optimal sites for implementing RWH systems in northern Iraq to enhance water availability and promote sustainable farming practices. An integrated geospatial approach was adopted, combining Remote Sensing (RS), Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA). Key thematic layers, including soil type, land use/land cover, slope, and drainage density were processed in a GIS environment to model runoff potential. The Soil Conservation Service Curve Number (SCS-CN) method was used to estimate surface runoff. Criteria were weighted using the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), enabling a structured and consistent evaluation of site suitability. The resulting suitability map classifies the region into four categories: very high suitability (10.2%), high (26.6%), moderate (40.4%), and low (22.8%). The integration of RS, GIS, AHP, and MCDA proved effective for strategic RWH site selection, supporting cost-efficient, sustainable, and data-driven agricultural planning in water-stressed environments. Full article
24 pages, 2309 KiB  
Article
Technical and Economic Analysis of Strategies to Reduce Potable Water Consumption in a Library
by Caio Morelli Figueroba, Igor Catão Martins Vaz, Liseane Padilha Thives and Enedir Ghisi
Water 2025, 17(14), 2137; https://doi.org/10.3390/w17142137 - 18 Jul 2025
Viewed by 344
Abstract
In Brazil, approximately 93 trillion litres of water are withdrawn annually from surface and groundwater sources, with urban human use being the second-largest water consumer. Therefore, reducing water consumption in buildings is crucial. This study performed a technical and economic analysis of isolated [...] Read more.
In Brazil, approximately 93 trillion litres of water are withdrawn annually from surface and groundwater sources, with urban human use being the second-largest water consumer. Therefore, reducing water consumption in buildings is crucial. This study performed a technical and economic analysis of isolated and combined water-saving strategies at the Central Library of the Federal University of Santa Catarina (UFSC). The strategies assessed included water-saving appliances, rainwater harvesting, and greywater and blackwater reuse, individually and in four combined scenarios. User surveys provided data on the frequency and duration of water appliance use and cleaning activities, while on-site water flow measurements enabled the estimation of water end uses. The potential for potable water savings was then determined for each strategy and scenario. The highest savings (77.96%) were achieved by combining water-saving appliances with blackwater reuse, followed by a combination of water-saving appliances, greywater reuse, and rainwater harvesting (65.73%). All strategies were economically viable, except the combination of water-saving appliances with greywater reuse, which showed a negative net present value. The scenario combining water-saving appliances and blackwater reuse generated the most significant financial savings (R$7782.48 per month), with a payback period of 50 months. Given its environmental and economic benefits, these scenarios were recommended for implementation. The study may be replicated worldwide, and one key conclusion is that libraries consume a significant amount of potable water for non-potable purposes, which should be supplemented with alternative sources. It is essential to consider whether the building is already built or under design, as some implementation processes require design modifications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Urban Water Management)
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25 pages, 1049 KiB  
Review
The Occurrence and Removal of Microplastics from Stormwater Using Green Infrastructure
by Anna Kwarciak-Kozłowska and Magdalena Madeła
Water 2025, 17(14), 2089; https://doi.org/10.3390/w17142089 - 13 Jul 2025
Viewed by 719
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are becoming an increasingly common pollutant in the aquatic environment, including stormwater. This is a serious problem, as stormwater is becoming an essential transport route for MPs from urban areas to surface waters. Rainwater flowing from roofs, roads, and other impermeable [...] Read more.
Microplastics (MPs) are becoming an increasingly common pollutant in the aquatic environment, including stormwater. This is a serious problem, as stormwater is becoming an essential transport route for MPs from urban areas to surface waters. Rainwater flowing from roofs, roads, and other impermeable surfaces contains a variety of plastic particles originating from tire abrasion or waste disposal. This article presents an overview of current research on the occurrence of MPs in stormwater. The potential of selected green infrastructure solutions—particularly bioretention systems, constructed wetlands, and permeable pavements—for their reduction is assessed. Individual solutions present how the change in filter material, selection of vegetation, or the method of conducting the process (e.g., direction of stormwater flow in constructed wetlands) affects their effectiveness. The potential of green infrastructure is also compared with the traditional gray solution of sewage management in cities. This article emphasizes the importance of integrating such solutions in spatial planning as an effective tool to combat climate change and limit the spread of microplastics in the environment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Methods in Wastewater and Stormwater Treatment)
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29 pages, 4151 KiB  
Article
Lake Water Composition in Oceanic Islands: Insights from REE Content and 87Sr/86Sr Isotopic Ratio
by José Virgílio Cruz, César Andrade, Letícia Ferreira and Fátima Viveiros
Water 2025, 17(13), 1849; https://doi.org/10.3390/w17131849 - 21 Jun 2025
Viewed by 410
Abstract
A study was carried out with a representative data set of volcanic lakes from the Azores archipelago. A total of 672 samples were collected during four field surveys conducted over the year and along the depth. Following water sampling, temperature, pH, and EC [...] Read more.
A study was carried out with a representative data set of volcanic lakes from the Azores archipelago. A total of 672 samples were collected during four field surveys conducted over the year and along the depth. Following water sampling, temperature, pH, and EC were measured, the dissolved CO2 and alkalinity were determined by titration, and aliquots were taken to perform analysis of major, minor and trace elements, as well as 18O/16O, 2H/1H and 87Sr/86Sr isotopic ratios. Waters are of meteoric origin and from the Na-HCO3 to Na-Cl types. The 87Sr/86Sr ranges between 0.709194 and 0.704294, and most of the lakes depict less radiogenic values than seawater, suggesting a potential contribution from rock dissolution. Along the reciprocal of the Sr vs. 87Sr/86Sr plot, most samples suggest a linear trend between rock values and rainwater. Samples display considerable variability in the ∑REE, ranging from 0.83 µg L−1 to 13.54 µg L−1, and when chondrite normalized, depict a negative slope, showing an enrichment in light REEs compared to heavy REEs. This pattern is consistent with the one from Azores rocks and bottom sediments from some lakes, and most lakes depict Eu anomalies, resulting from interaction between water and sediments or from incongruent mineral dissolution. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Hydrology)
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14 pages, 2214 KiB  
Article
Anthropogenic Influences on the Chemical and Mineral Composition in Pond Sediment by X-Ray Absorption Spectroscopy and X-Ray Powder Diffraction
by Jalal Sawas, Derek Blanco, Mary Kroll, Aleida Perez, Juergen Thieme, Eric Dooryhee, Sarah Nicholas, Paul Northrup and Dana Schaefer
Quantum Beam Sci. 2025, 9(2), 21; https://doi.org/10.3390/qubs9020021 - 19 Jun 2025
Viewed by 461
Abstract
Manmade detention ponds have historically been impacted by anthropogenic activities such as rainwater runoff, car emissions, and drainage from infrastructures, which can lead to complications for pond ecosystems. Sediment samples collected from the northern, southern, western, and eastern regions of a small pond [...] Read more.
Manmade detention ponds have historically been impacted by anthropogenic activities such as rainwater runoff, car emissions, and drainage from infrastructures, which can lead to complications for pond ecosystems. Sediment samples collected from the northern, southern, western, and eastern regions of a small pond on a suburban high school campus on Long Island, NY, were analyzed for potential chemical changes resulting from an inundation of water by a broken water main. Incorporating synchrotron X-ray techniques, sediment was analyzed using Submicron Resolution Spectroscopy, Tender Energy X-ray Spectroscopy, and X-ray Powder Diffraction to examine heavy metals, light elements, and minerals. Results include a Zn:Cu ratio increase from 4:1 to 10:1 in the eastern zone and a higher heavy metal presence in the western zone for all elements examined, with greater distribution throughout the pond post-inundation. Lighter elements appear to remain relatively unchanged. The appearance of diopside in the eastern zone post-inundation samples suggests contamination from the water main break, while the presence of carbonate minerals in the western zone is consistent with erosion of asphalt material from the adjacent parking lot. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Spectroscopy Technique)
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19 pages, 2788 KiB  
Article
Impact of Climate Change on the Tourism Potential of Northeastern Brazil: Trend Analysis and Future Perspectives
by Ayobami Badiru, Lívia Humaire, Lucas Suassuna de Albuquerque Wanderley and Andreas Matzarakis
Sustainability 2025, 17(12), 5290; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17125290 - 7 Jun 2025
Viewed by 803
Abstract
This study aims to assess the impacts of climate change on the tourism potential of Northeastern Brazil by analyzing historical trends and future climate projections, identifying climate risks, and proposing spatially targeted adaptation strategies. Historical daily climate data from the BR-DWGD and future [...] Read more.
This study aims to assess the impacts of climate change on the tourism potential of Northeastern Brazil by analyzing historical trends and future climate projections, identifying climate risks, and proposing spatially targeted adaptation strategies. Historical daily climate data from the BR-DWGD and future projections from the MPI-ESM1-2-LR model under the SSP2 4.5 scenario were used to evaluate extremes in temperature and precipitation. Principal component analysis and spatial cluster analysis were applied to identify five climatically homogeneous zones across the region. Results indicate generalized warming trends and intensifying rainfall extremes, particularly in coastal clusters where tourism infrastructure is concentrated. Inland zones, especially those with semi-arid climates, exhibit rising temperatures, prolonged droughts, and increasing water scarcity. These differentiated climatic patterns pose risks to infrastructure, ecosystem services, and the overall sustainability of tourism. In response, the study proposes adaptation measures tailored to each zone, including improved drainage systems, sustainable cooling technologies, rainwater harvesting, and diversification of tourism activities. Emphasis is placed on community-based governance to enhance social equity and resilience. The findings highlight the relevance of spatialized climate analysis for guiding adaptation planning and supporting a more inclusive and climate-resilient tourism sector in the region. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Resident Well-Being and Sustainable Tourism Development)
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21 pages, 1473 KiB  
Article
Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment of Greywater Treatment and Rainwater Harvesting for Decentralized Water Reuse in Brazil and Germany
by Hugo Henrique de Simone Souza, Carlo Gottardo Morandi, Marc Árpád Boncz, Paula Loureiro Paulo and Heidrun Steinmetz
Resources 2025, 14(6), 96; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14060096 - 4 Jun 2025
Viewed by 1046
Abstract
Urban water management faces growing pressure from population growth, pollution, and climate variability, demanding innovative strategies to ensure long-term sustainability. This study applies the Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment (LCSA) across four case studies in Brazil and Germany, evaluating integrated systems that combine constructed [...] Read more.
Urban water management faces growing pressure from population growth, pollution, and climate variability, demanding innovative strategies to ensure long-term sustainability. This study applies the Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment (LCSA) across four case studies in Brazil and Germany, evaluating integrated systems that combine constructed wetlands for greywater treatment with rainwater harvesting for non-potable use. The scenarios include a single-family household, a high-rise residential building, a rural residence, and worker housing. A multi-criteria analysis was conducted to derive consolidated sustainability indicators, and sensitivity analysis explored the influence of dimension weighting. Results showed that water reuse scenarios consistently outperformed conventional counterparts across environmental, economic, and social dimensions. Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) revealed notable reductions in global warming potential, terrestrial acidification, and eutrophication. Life Cycle Costing (LCC) confirmed financial feasibility when externalities were considered, especially in large-scale systems. Social Life Cycle Assessment (S-LCA) highlighted the perceived benefits in terms of health, safety, and sustainability engagement. Integrated water reuse systems achieved overall sustainability scores up to 4.8 times higher than their baseline equivalents. These findings underscore the effectiveness of decentralized water reuse as a complementary and robust alternative to conventional supply and treatment models, supporting climate resilience and sustainable development goals. Full article
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19 pages, 2107 KiB  
Article
Impact of an Aged Green Roof on Stormwater Quality and First-Flush Dynamics
by Thiago Masaharu Osawa, Maria Cristina Santana Pereira, Brenda Chaves Coelho Leite and José Rodolfo Scarati Martins
Buildings 2025, 15(11), 1763; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15111763 - 22 May 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 477
Abstract
Green roofs (GRs) are increasingly implemented for stormwater management, and retrofitting conventional roofs is emerging as a key strategy for climate change resilience. However, their impact on diffuse pollution, particularly regarding total organic carbon (TOC) and pollutant mass transport, remains insufficiently understood, especially [...] Read more.
Green roofs (GRs) are increasingly implemented for stormwater management, and retrofitting conventional roofs is emerging as a key strategy for climate change resilience. However, their impact on diffuse pollution, particularly regarding total organic carbon (TOC) and pollutant mass transport, remains insufficiently understood, especially in aged substrates. This study evaluated and compared the runoff quality from aged GRs and ceramic roofs (CRs) by analyzing TOC, pH, electrical conductivity (EC), first-flush occurrence and intensity, and pollutant release patterns. Results showed that GR retrofitting could help mitigate acid-rain effects due to its elevated pH. Despite higher TOC and EC concentrations in runoff, GRs remained within acceptable water quality limits and exhibited a more gradual release of organic matter over time compared with CRs. Statistical analysis revealed that pollutant concentrations in CR runoff followed Lognormal and Weibull distributions, while GR runoff was best described by Normal, Lognormal, and Weibull distributions. These findings reinforce GRs as a viable stormwater management strategy but highlight the need for full runoff treatment when used for rainwater harvesting. The results also emphasize the importance of tailored statistical models to enhance runoff predictions and optimize GR performance in urban water management. The results provide valuable insights for urban planners and policymakers by reinforcing the potential of GRs in stormwater quality management and supporting the development of incentives for green infrastructure. Future research should expand to different GR configurations, climates, and maintenance practices to enhance the understanding of long-term hydrological and water quality performance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Building and Green Stormwater Infrastructure)
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22 pages, 8325 KiB  
Article
Stability Analysis of the Huasushu Slope Under the Coupling of Reservoir Level Decline and Rainfall
by Hao Yang, Yingfa Lu and Jin Wang
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(10), 5781; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15105781 - 21 May 2025
Viewed by 336
Abstract
The coupling of water level fluctuations and heavy rainfall in the Three Gorges reservoir area poses a significant threat to the stability of bank slopes, especially in landslide areas with complex geological conditions. In this study, the Huasushu slope in Fengjie County, Chongqing, [...] Read more.
The coupling of water level fluctuations and heavy rainfall in the Three Gorges reservoir area poses a significant threat to the stability of bank slopes, especially in landslide areas with complex geological conditions. In this study, the Huasushu slope in Fengjie County, Chongqing, was taken as the research object and, based on a field investigation and monitoring data, two- and three-dimensional numerical models were constructed to analyze the response mechanism of the slope under the combined effects of different reservoir water level decreases and rainfall. In addition, the safety coefficients under each working condition were calculated using the Morgenstern–Price method. The results show that it is difficult to trigger significant deformation with a single water level drop or rainfall. However, when the reservoir water level drops more than 10 m within a short period of time and is superimposed with strong rainfall, the landslide body is prone to plastic zone extension and significant displacement, showing typical strain localization characteristics. The three-dimensional model further reveals the spatial distribution characteristics of the landslide deformation area, which helps to accurately identify potential destabilization locations. The research results provide theoretical support for the construction of early warning systems for reservoir bank slopes and have reference value for the development of disaster mitigation engineering measures based on the coupling mechanism of rainwater and reservoir water. Full article
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13 pages, 3489 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Planning and Strategies for Expansion of Irrigation Services in Mountainous Areas: A Case Study of Nantou County in Taiwan
by Feng-Wen Chen, Yun-Wei Tan, Hsiu-Te Lin, Yu-Chien Cho, Ya-Ting Chang and Li-Chi Chiang
Eng. Proc. 2025, 91(1), 17; https://doi.org/10.3390/engproc2025091017 - 8 May 2025
Viewed by 344
Abstract
More than half of the cultivated land belongs to the Irrigation Association. Therefore, there have been no farmland consolidation, irrigation, and drainage projects. The cultivation in the non-irrigation area suffers from poor geographical conditions and a lack of water sources. A practical planning [...] Read more.
More than half of the cultivated land belongs to the Irrigation Association. Therefore, there have been no farmland consolidation, irrigation, and drainage projects. The cultivation in the non-irrigation area suffers from poor geographical conditions and a lack of water sources. A practical planning strategy is required for expanding irrigation services. The mountainous area of Nantou County, Taiwan, has 7477 ha of available land and 4656 ha of agricultural land outside the irrigation area. Rain and streams are the main water source. There are 82 ponds, 80% of which belong to the loam soil, and the rainfall from October to February is limited. The water requirement of crops is 1.5–3.1 mm/day. Wild streams, groundwater, and rainwater are the only potential water sources due to elevation and terrain. The potential runoff is estimated to be 0–0.927 cms (m3/s) when using the SCS-CN method. Water supply and demand from October to April are limited, and the rainfall comprises 22% of the total water supply. Large reservoirs and water storage towers are required for flooding and in dry seasons. To address water storage challenges and stabilize the balance between water supply and demand, it is essential to construct additional ponds. Full article
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21 pages, 4253 KiB  
Article
Enhancing Urban Resilience: Stormwater Retention and Evapotranspiration Performance of Green Roofs Under Extreme Rainfall Events
by Marc Breulmann, Amelie Merbach, Katy Bernhard and Lucie Moeller
Land 2025, 14(5), 977; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14050977 - 1 May 2025
Viewed by 758
Abstract
Rapid urbanisation and climate change have intensified extreme rainfall events, exacerbating stormwater runoff and overwhelming urban drainage systems. Nature-based solutions, such as green roofs with integrated retention capacity, offer promising strategies to mitigate these challenges. This study investigates the influence of substrate thickness [...] Read more.
Rapid urbanisation and climate change have intensified extreme rainfall events, exacerbating stormwater runoff and overwhelming urban drainage systems. Nature-based solutions, such as green roofs with integrated retention capacity, offer promising strategies to mitigate these challenges. This study investigates the influence of substrate thickness and retention volume on the stormwater retention and evapotranspiration (ET) performance of three green roof variants under extreme rainfall scenarios (natural and 5-, 30- and 100-year events). Using lysimeter-based experimental setups, we show that the overall retention capacity is highly dependent on the filling status of the retention layer. Near full capacity, retention performance decreases significantly, resulting in runoff behaviour similar to that of conventional green roofs, while empty systems store up to 99% of rainfall. In addition, ET rates tend to decrease in systems with higher substrate layers and larger retention spaces due to reduced surface evaporation and greater thermal insulation. However, higher substrate layers store more water, allowing plants to maintain transpiration during dry periods, potentially increasing total cumulative ET over time. Overall, this study highlights the importance of designing intensive retention green roofs with dynamic water management to optimise both rainwater retention and ET, thereby increasing urban resilience to increasing rainfall extremes caused by climate change. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Potential for Nature-Based Solutions in Urban Green Infrastructure)
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20 pages, 1825 KiB  
Article
Rainwater Harvesting for Well Recharge and Agricultural Irrigation: An Adaptation Strategy to Climate Change in Central Chile
by Pablo S. González, Robinson Sáez Lazo, Carlos Vallejos Carrera, Óscar Fernández Torres, Luis Bustos-Espinoza, Alfredo Ibáñez Córdova and Ben Ingram
Sustainability 2025, 17(8), 3549; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17083549 - 15 Apr 2025
Viewed by 1202
Abstract
Water scarcity in Chile, particularly in the Mediterranean region, has been exacerbated by prolonged drought and climate change. Rainwater harvesting systems (RHS) have emerged as viable solutions for addressing water shortages, particularly for agricultural irrigation and aquifer recharge. This study evaluated the implementation [...] Read more.
Water scarcity in Chile, particularly in the Mediterranean region, has been exacerbated by prolonged drought and climate change. Rainwater harvesting systems (RHS) have emerged as viable solutions for addressing water shortages, particularly for agricultural irrigation and aquifer recharge. This study evaluated the implementation and efficiency of RHS in rural areas of the Biobío Region, Chile, through the design and construction of two pilot systems in Arauco and Florida. These systems were assessed based on their water collection capacity, storage efficiency, and monitoring of water level variations in wells after rainwater incorporation, using depth probes to quantify stored volumes. The hydrological design incorporated site-specific precipitation analyses, runoff coefficients, and catchment area dimensions, estimating annual precipitation of 861 mm/year for Arauco and 611 mm/year for Florida. The RHS Arauco collected and stored 40 m3 of rainwater in a flexible tank, while RHS Florida stored 10 m3 in a polyethylene tank, demonstrating the effectiveness of the system. Additionally, we analyzed the economic feasibility and quality of harvested rainwater, ensuring its suitability for agricultural use according to Chilean regulations. The cost-effectiveness analysis indicated that the cost of stored water was $263.51 USD/m3 for Arauco and $841.07 USD/m3 for Florida, highlighting larger systems are more cost-effective owing to economies of scale. The Net Present Value (NPV) was calculated using a discount rate of 6% and a useful life of 10 years, yielding CLP $9,564,745 ($10,812.7 USD) for the Florida and CLP $2,216,616 ($2505.8 USD) for the Arauco site. The results indicate that both projects are financially viable and highly profitable, offering rapid payback periods and sustainable long-term benefits. RHS significantly contributes to water availability during the dry season, reducing dependence on conventional water sources and enhancing agricultural sustainability. Based on the evaluation of the cost–benefit, water availability, and infrastructure adaptability, we infer the feasibility of large-scale implementation at locations with similar characteristics. These findings support the role of RHS in sustainable water resource management and strengthening rural resilience to climate variability, highlighting their potential as an adaptation strategy to climate change in water-scarce Mediterranean regions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Water Management)
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23 pages, 2621 KiB  
Article
Analysing the Water–Energy Nexus Considering Rainwater Harvesting in Buildings
by Tânia Mara Sebben Oneda and Enedir Ghisi
Water 2025, 17(7), 1037; https://doi.org/10.3390/w17071037 - 31 Mar 2025
Viewed by 504
Abstract
Rainwater harvesting has been widely discussed globally due to major concerns regarding climate change and water scarcity. This paper aims to analyse and evaluate rainwater harvesting in buildings and its relationship with the water–energy nexus. Five types of buildings were analysed: public, industrial, [...] Read more.
Rainwater harvesting has been widely discussed globally due to major concerns regarding climate change and water scarcity. This paper aims to analyse and evaluate rainwater harvesting in buildings and its relationship with the water–energy nexus. Five types of buildings were analysed: public, industrial, commercial, single-family houses, and multi-family residential buildings within the Cubatão do Norte river watershed in Joinville, Brazil. Using simulations in the Netuno programme, the potential for potable water savings was calculated. This potential was compared to the energy consumption for potable water treatment by the municipality. The average potential for potable water savings was the following: 28.18% for public buildings, 50.83% for industrial buildings, 34.12% for commercial buildings, 23.12% for single-family houses, and 18.55% for multi-family residential buildings. After analysing the energy savings for the entire watershed, the average savings were 245 kWh/day for all public sector buildings, 209 kWh/day for all industrial sector buildings, 8 kWh/day for all commercial sector buildings, 25 kWh/day for all single-family houses, and 15 kWh/day for all multi-family residential buildings. Over a year, energy savings can range from 135,426 kWh to 240,900 kWh in all the buildings studied in Joinville. Finally, further studies on the water–energy nexus are needed to make cities more resilient and sustainable in terms of using resources. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Urban Water Management)
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24 pages, 4578 KiB  
Article
Influence of Phosphogypsum Waste on Rainwater Chemistry in a Highly Polluted Area with High Mortality Rates in Huelva Metropolitan Area, Spain
by Manuel Contreras-Llanes, Vanessa Santos-Sánchez, Juan Alguacil and Roberto Rodríguez-Pacheco
Sustainability 2025, 17(7), 3102; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17073102 - 31 Mar 2025
Viewed by 721
Abstract
This study evaluates the impact of phosphogypsum stacks on the chemical composition of rainwater in the Huelva metropolitan area, a metal-polluted area with high cancer and heart disease mortality rates. A total of 612 rainwater samples were collected using 17 rain gauges located [...] Read more.
This study evaluates the impact of phosphogypsum stacks on the chemical composition of rainwater in the Huelva metropolitan area, a metal-polluted area with high cancer and heart disease mortality rates. A total of 612 rainwater samples were collected using 17 rain gauges located around the study area between January 2021 and December 2022. The pH, conductivity, major ions, and trace metals were detected in the soluble fraction of rainwater. The results revealed spatial variability in the rainwater quality. The highest values of As, Ca2+, Cr, F, NH4+, Ni, PO43−, SO42−, Sr, and V were detected in rain-gauges near phosphogypsum stacks, exceeding the levels of pH, F, and Ni according to the guideline values for drinking water quality from the WHO. Additionally, other pollution sources also contributed: a regional source (marine factors: Ca2+, Cl, K+, Mg2+, and Na+) and a local source (chemical complexes emissions: Co, Cu, Pb, and Zn). A downward trend of most toxic metal(loid) concentrations in wet depositions was detected as the distance to the affected area increased. The findings revealed that phosphogypsum stacks are a relevant source of metal(loid)s with potentially adverse environmental and public health effects that, if replicated, could be relevant for environmental monitoring and policy making. Full article
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20 pages, 7737 KiB  
Article
Thermal Evaluation of a Water-to-Air Heat Exchanger Combined with Different Roof Configurations for Passive Cooling
by José-Manuel Almodóvar-Melendo and Pablo La Roche
Buildings 2025, 15(7), 1098; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15071098 - 27 Mar 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 495
Abstract
Traditional conservation strategies often prioritize minimizing water use; nevertheless, water can also enhance thermal comfort by incorporating a water-to-air heat exchanger (WAHE) alongside non-direct evaporative and radiant cooling techniques. A WAHE can be installed in features such as ponds, water tanks, or rainwater [...] Read more.
Traditional conservation strategies often prioritize minimizing water use; nevertheless, water can also enhance thermal comfort by incorporating a water-to-air heat exchanger (WAHE) alongside non-direct evaporative and radiant cooling techniques. A WAHE can be installed in features such as ponds, water tanks, or rainwater cisterns. This article assesses the cooling potential of two prototypes of roof ponds and a green roof connected to a WAHE, and the results are compared to a baseline unit featuring a roof that meets California’s energy code standards. Several testing units, measuring 1.35 × 1.35 × 1.35 m, with identical heat characteristics, excluding the roof, were constructed and tested. In the first system, the heat that the green roof could not absorb was transferred to a water reservoir and then dissipated to the outside. The first roof pond prototype features a 0.35 m deep water pond topped with a 0.03 m thick insulating panel and a spray system. The second roof pond variant has an aluminum sheet with a 0.10 m air gap above a 0.25 m deep water pond. The results suggest that combining a WAHE with different roof configurations offers promising benefits while keeping water consumption limited. Notably, when the WAHE is operating, the green roof increase its performance by 47%, the insulated roof pond by 22%, and the roof pond with an aluminum sheet by 13%. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Climate-Responsive Architectural and Urban Design)
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