Evaluation of the Performance of Rainwater Harvesting Systems for Domestic Use in Tlalpan, Mexico City
Abstract: Rainwater harvesting
(RWH) as an alternative means of providing water in domestic contexts, is
viewed as an effective supply option worldwide. In Mexico City, the water
situation is critical and the provision of water services to the population
represents a formidable challenge for the city’s water utilities. The main
objective of this study is to evaluate the potential for RWH to supply domestic
properties in Tlalpan, 1 of 16 delegations in the city with one of the highest
percentages of homes unconnected to the distribution network. Results show RWH
can meet 88% of household water demand during the 6 month wet season, with an
annual saving of 55%. Modelling a World Health Organisation minimum demand of
20 l/p/d as a means of resilience management in the event of a water crisis,
6-month and annual savings were 99% and 80% respectively. The minimum tank size
to achieve wet season savings of 90% was 6m3 in two precipitation bands and
tank sizes of 13,000 – 17,000L were sufficient in 3 out of 4 to prevent
overspill. The report concludes RWH is a viable method of providing water in
the south of the city and should be part of an integrated water management
solution.
Author: Niall Patrick Nolan,
Cecilia Lartigue
Journal Code: jptsipilgg170006
