Utilization of Rainwater as Consumable Water with Rainwater Harvesting Methods: A Literature Review

Background: Water demand is expected to increase in all sectors. Rainwater can be a solution to the lack of the clean water crisis. The quality of rainwater harvested is highly dependent on the rainwater harvesting system. Methods: This literature review is a narrative review using sources from the Scopus and Pubmed databases. The keywords used were utilization, rainwater, and rainwater harvesting methods. Of the 30 references identified in the search phase, ten were eligible for inclusion in this review. Results: Harvested rainwater can be used for multiple purposes such as watering plants, washing, bathing, and even cooking if the water quality meets health standards. There are three fundamental components that should be present within the rainwater harvesting system: 1) a rainwater pipe that traps water, e.g., utilizing the shape of the roof surface, 2) a water distribution system, i.e., a system that transports water from the roof to the superficies through a gutter, and 3) a reservoir that stores rainwater such as barrels, tubs, or ponds. Conclusions: Water conservation efforts are needed to meet the demand for water in the face of increasingly limited supply. Harvesting rainwater is one of the methods of water conservation that can be carried out by each household of the community to collect raw rainwater for consumption and use. If rainwater harvesting is practiced in a sustainable manner, it will help maintain water and environmental sustainability, thus supporting the livelihood of present and future generations.