WATER CONSERVATION AND RAIN WATER HARVESTING

MODULE 4

SYLLABUS:

Elementary conservation of water: Importance, knowledge regarding conservation/saving of

water in daily use, in agriculture, in industries. Water Conservation strategies Limiting the
consumption, Reuse and recycling, Elimination of losses, Pollution prevention

 IMPORTANCE OF WATER CONSERVATION:

o Reduces Energy Use and Pollution: Water conservation is directly connected

to energy conservation. Treating, heating, and pumping water requires a
significant amount of energy. When we reduce water use, we also reduce the
demand for energy, leading to lower greenhouse gas emissions and less air
pollution. In addition, conserving water means there is less runoff and
wastewater entering rivers and oceans, which decreases pollution levels and
helps protect marine life.

o Combats Drought and Water Scarcity: Climate change is causing more

frequent and severe droughts around the world. Water conservation plays a
critical role in helping communities and ecosystems withstand these dry periods.
By using less water, we can reduce the strain on limited freshwater supplies and
help preserve underground water sources like aquifers, which can take decades
or even centuries to refill if overused.

o Prevents Soil Erosion and Degradation: Excessive use of water, especially in

agriculture or gardening, can lead to runoff that washes away nutrient-rich
topsoil. This not only harms plant life but also contributes to pollution in nearby
waterways as fertilizers and chemicals are carried into streams and rivers.
Conserving water through smarter irrigation and landscaping practices can
prevent soil erosion and keep land healthy and productive.

o Supports Biodiversity: Water conservation helps maintain the delicate balance

of natural habitats, supporting a wide range of plant and animal life. When water
is scarce, many species are forced to compete for fewer resources or migrate to
new areas, disrupting local ecosystems. By reducing our water usage, we protect
habitats, promote biodiversity, and ensure that ecosystems remain stable and
resilient for generations to come.

o Mitigates the Impact of Climate Change: Water conservation plays a key role
in building environmental resilience against the effects of climate change. As
global temperatures rise, weather patterns shift, and water availability becomes
more unpredictable. By conserving water, we help maintain the health of
wetlands, forests, and other critical ecosystems that act as natural carbon sinks.
These ecosystems store carbon dioxide, regulate temperatures, and support
climate balance—making water conservation an essential tool in the fight against
climate change.
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 NEED OF WATER CONSERVATION:

1. Limited Freshwater Availability: Only a small percentage of the Earth's water

is fresh and usable. With growing populations and increasing demand,
conserving water is essential to ensure a reliable supply for drinking, sanitation,
and agriculture.

2. Environmental Protection: Conserving water helps preserve ecosystems,

maintain river flows, and protect wildlife habitats. It reduces the strain on
natural water sources and prevents environmental degradation.

3. Climate Change and Droughts: Climate change is leading to more frequent

droughts and unpredictable rainfall patterns. Water conservation helps
communities prepare for and adapt to these changes by reducing dependence on
vulnerable water supplies.

4. Energy and Cost Savings: Water treatment and distribution require energy. By
using less water, we reduce energy consumption, lower greenhouse gas
emissions, and save money on utility bills for individuals and communities

 ELEMENTS OF WATER CONSERVATION:

1. Efficient Water Use: Using water only when and where it's needed helps reduce
waste. This includes turning off taps when not in use, using water-saving
appliances, and fixing leaks promptly.

2. Rainwater Harvesting: Collecting and storing rainwater for later use—

especially for gardening, flushing, or even drinking (after proper treatment)—
reduces dependence on groundwater and municipal supplies.

3. Water Recycling and Reuse: Reusing greywater (wastewater from sinks,

showers, etc.) for non-drinking purposes like irrigation or toilet flushing is a
major part of sustainable water management.

4. Sustainable Irrigation: Using drip irrigation, scheduling watering during cooler

times, and planting drought-resistant crops help reduce water use in agriculture
and landscaping.

5. Public Awareness and Education: Teaching people the importance of saving

water and how to do it encourages long-term conservation habits and
community participation.

6. Government Policies and Regulations: Laws, incentives, and guidelines from

authorities can support conservation efforts by encouraging efficient practices
and penalizing wasteful ones.
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 WATER SAVING METHODS IN DAILY USE:

 Engineering Techniques:

1. Install Low-Flow Fixtures: Modern low-flow showerheads, taps, and toilets are
designed to use significantly less water without affecting performance, helping
you save water every time you use them.

2. Use Dual-Flush Toilets: These toilets offer two flushing options—one for liquid
waste and another for solid waste allowing you to conserve water with every
flush.

3. Set Up Rainwater Harvesting Systems: Collecting rainwater from rooftops for

non-drinking uses like gardening, washing, or flushing reduces the demand on
tap water.

4. Install Sensor-Based or Auto-Closing Taps: These smart taps automatically

shut off when not in use, reducing unnecessary water flow, especially in kitchens
and public washrooms.
5. Adopt Smart Irrigation Systems: Automated Garden irrigation systems
equipped with moisture sensors and timers ensure plants are watered only
when needed, preventing overuse.

 General change in practices:

1. Fix Leaks Immediately: A single dripping tap can waste thousands of litres over
a year. Repairing leaks as soon as they’re noticed helps prevent unnecessary
water loss.

2. Use Buckets Instead of Hoses: Whether you’re washing your car or cleaning
outdoor spaces, using a bucket instead of a hose saves a significant amount of
water.

3. Take Shorter Showers: Reducing shower time by just a few minutes each day
can save dozens of litres of water over time, especially in larger households.

4. Water Plants During Cool Hours: Water your garden early in the morning or
late in the evening to reduce evaporation and make sure plants absorb more
moisture.

5. Run Full Loads in Washing Machines and Dishwashers: Waiting until you
have a full load before running machines ensures that you get the most water-
efficient use per cycle.
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AGRICULTURAL WATER USAGE

 AREAS OF EXTENSIVE USAGE OF WATER:

1. Irrigation:

The largest use of water in agriculture is for irrigation, which provides crops with
essential water, particularly in areas with irregular rainfall or during dry seasons.
Various irrigation methods like drip irrigation, sprinklers, and flood irrigation
require large volumes of water to ensure crops grow healthy and productive.

2. Livestock Watering:

Water is also heavily consumed for livestock in farming operations. Cattle, poultry,
and other farm animals need regular access to water for drinking, cooling, and
maintaining health, which can amount to substantial water usage, especially in
large-scale operations.

3. Crop Processing and Washing:

After harvest, crops such as fruits, vegetables, and grains require significant water
for cleaning, processing, and packaging. The water is used to wash dirt off produce,
and in some cases, to prepare crops for storage or transport, which can contribute
to considerable water consumption.

4. Aquaculture and Fish Farming:

Aquaculture (fish farming) involves raising fish and other aquatic organisms in
controlled water environments. Large volumes of water are used to maintain
optimal water quality and oxygen levels for the fish, as well as for cleaning and
circulating water in fish tanks or ponds.

5. Greenhouse and Nursery Operations:

In greenhouses and plant nurseries, water is essential for growing high-value

crops such as flowers, vegetables, and herbs. These controlled environments use
water for irrigation, cooling systems, and maintaining humidity, all of which require
significant amounts of water to keep plants healthy and productive.

6. Pesticide and Fertilizer Application:

Water is also used as a vehicle for applying pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers
to crops. These chemicals are mixed with water and sprayed onto fields to protect
crops from pests and ensure that they grow optimally, contributing to substantial
water usage in crop protection and enhancement.
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 CAUSES OF WATER LOSSES IN AGRICULTURE:

1. Inefficient Irrigation Methods:

Traditional irrigation systems like flood irrigation or surface irrigation often

waste a significant amount of water. These methods can lead to evaporation,
runoff, or deep percolation (water that moves below the root zone), resulting in
water loss. Without proper management, these systems do not distribute water
efficiently to crops, leading to unnecessary waste.

2. Evaporation:

Evaporation from soil and water surfaces is a natural process, but it is intensified
in hot climates or areas with little cloud cover. Water lost through evaporation
can be particularly high in open irrigation systems, especially when water is
stored in large ponds or channels that are exposed to the sun.

3. Runoff:

Excess water from irrigation or rainfall that doesn't get absorbed by the soil is
called runoff. If the land is too steep, the soil is too compacted, or irrigation is
over-applied, water can quickly run off the field instead of being absorbed by the
plants. This leads to both water loss and soil erosion.

4. Poor Water Management Practices:

Lack of proper water management, such as over-irrigation or inconsistent

watering schedules, contributes to significant water wastage. When water is
applied too frequently or in excessive amounts, it either evaporates, runs off, or
leaches beyond the plant roots, wasting both water and nutrients.

5. Soil Compaction and Poor Soil Structure:

Soil compaction, often caused by heavy machinery, reduces the ability of the soil
to absorb and retain water. Compacted soil leads to increased surface runoff and
reduced infiltration, meaning more water is lost to evaporation or runoff instead
of being absorbed by the plants.

6. Leakages in Irrigation Systems:

Leaks in irrigation pipes, canals, and pumps can lead to significant water losses.
If irrigation systems are not regularly maintained, cracks or breaks can develop,
allowing water to escape before reaching the crops. This is particularly common
in older, outdated irrigation systems that have not been updated or repaired.
WATER CONSERVATION AND RAIN WATER HARVESTING

 METHOD TO CONTROL WATER LOSSES IN AGRICULTURE:

1. Drip Irrigation: Drip irrigation involves delivering water directly to the roots of
plants through a network of tubes, pipes, and emitters. This method minimizes
evaporation and runoff, ensuring that plants receive water efficiently and directly.

2. Rainwater Harvesting: Collecting rainwater from rooftops or open fields and

storing it in tanks or reservoirs for later use in irrigation can reduce dependency on
groundwater or other external water sources, helping to save water during dry spells.

3. Soil Moisture Management: Using soil moisture sensors or simple techniques

like mulching helps to retain soil moisture. Proper soil moisture management reduces
water waste by ensuring that irrigation is applied only when necessary.

4. Sprinkler Irrigation Systems: Modern sprinkler systems, especially low-

pressure sprinklers, provide efficient water distribution over a wide area and can be
automated to prevent water wastage. These systems can be optimized to match the
plant's specific water needs.

5. Use of Drought-Resistant Crops: Planting drought-resistant or climate-

appropriate crops can significantly reduce the need for excessive irrigation. These crops
require less water to grow and can thrive in arid conditions, reducing overall water
demand.

6. Precision Agriculture: Through the use of technology like GPS, drones, and
sensors, precision agriculture optimizes the use of water, applying it exactly where
and when it is needed. This reduces waste and ensures water goes directly to the areas
that need it most.

7. Water-Efficient Irrigation Scheduling: Using weather forecasts, soil moisture

levels, and crop water requirements, farmers can schedule irrigation more effectively.
Avoiding over-irrigation and timing water applications to minimize evaporation
ensures that water is not wasted.

8. Laser Land Levelling: Laser levelling ensures that fields are uniformly levelled,
preventing water from accumulating in low spots and helping water to be evenly
distributed across the field. This results in more efficient irrigation and reduces water
runoff.

9. Conservation Tillage: Minimizing soil disturbance through conservation tillage

(such as no-till farming) helps improve water retention in the soil. This reduces
evaporation and water runoff, making more water available to crops.

10. Cover Cropping: Growing cover crops like legumes or grasses during the off-
season helps prevent soil erosion and retain moisture in the soil. Cover crops protect
WATER CONSERVATION AND RAIN WATER HARVESTING

the soil structure, improve water infiltration, and reduce water loss through
evaporation.

INDUSTRIAL WATER USAGE:

 MAJOR INDUSTRIAL WATER USAGES:

1. Textile Industry: Water is heavily used in fabric dyeing, washing, and finishing
processes. From cotton cleaning to colour setting, every stage requires large volumes. It
also plays a role in cooling and transporting materials.

2. Paper and Pulp Industry: Extensive water use occurs during wood pulping,
paper formation, and bleaching. Water acts as a medium for fibre breakdown and
movement through machines. It's also used in machinery cooling and cleaning.

3. Food and Beverage Industry: Used in ingredient preparation, equipment

cleaning, and product processing like brewing or bottling. Water also plays a major
role in sterilization and cooling systems in factories.

4. Chemical and Petrochemical Industry: Water is required for chemical

reactions, cooling, and product separation. It's also used for dilution and as a solvent
in various processes. Managing contaminated water is a key environmental concern.

5. Thermal Power Plants (Energy Sector): These plants use water for steam
generation, cooling turbines, and condensing steam back into water. A majority of
water is lost through evaporation in cooling towers.

6. Mining and Metal Processing Industry: Water is vital in ore washing, dust
suppression, and metal extraction/refining. It's also used in slurry transport and
cooling. The discharged water often contains heavy metals or chemicals.

7. Automobile Industry: High water usage occurs during parts manufacturing,

metal treatment, and especially vehicle painting and coating. Water is also used in
testing units and engine cooling systems.

8. Construction and Cement Industry: Water is essential for concrete mixing,

curing, and brick/block production. It's also used for dust control, site preparation,
and tool/machine cleaning.

9. Electronics and Semiconductor Industry: Ultra-pure water (UPW) is used

extensively in wafer cleaning, etching, and chip fabrication. Even microscopic
impurities can ruin products, so purification systems consume large amounts of water.
WATER CONSERVATION AND RAIN WATER HARVESTING

10. Leather and Tanning Industry: Water is heavily used in soaking, liming,
tanning, and dyeing of hides. These processes generate contaminated wastewater
containing chemicals and organic waste, requiring careful treatment.

 TECNIQUES / METHODS OF WATER CONSERVATION IN INDUSTRIES:

1. Textile Industry:
 Adopt waterless dyeing technologies (e.g., using supercritical CO₂).
 Reuse and recycle process water through treatment systems.
 Use low-liquor ratio dyeing machines to minimize water use.

2. Paper and Pulp Industry

 Shift to closed-loop water systems to recycle process water.
 Use enzyme-based bleaching that requires less water.
 Optimize machine cleaning schedules to avoid excess rinsing.

3. Food and Beverage Industry

 Install clean-in-place (CIP) systems to reduce water in equipment cleaning.
 Use dry cleaning methods (compressed air or scrapers) before washing.
 Reuse cooling and process water after treatment for non-potable uses.

4. Chemical and Petrochemical Industry

 Implement zero liquid discharge (ZLD) systems to reuse all water.
 Replace once-through cooling with recirculating systems.
 Treat and reuse effluent water within the plant for secondary operations.

5. Thermal Power Plants (Energy Sector)

 Switch to air-cooled condensers or hybrid cooling systems.
 Use treated wastewater instead of fresh water for cooling.
 Recover and reuse condensate to minimize intake water demand.

6. Mining and Metal Processing Industry

 Implement dry separation technologies where applicable.
 Use thickeners and tailings recycling to reduce water in ore processing.
 Collect and reuse stormwater runoff and mine drainage.

7. Automobile Industry
 Introduce dry paint booths or water-recirculating paint systems.
 Use robotic washing for parts with minimum water sprays.
 Recycle rinse water through reverse osmosis or filtration units.

8. Construction and Cement Industry

WATER CONSERVATION AND RAIN WATER HARVESTING

 Use ready-mix concrete to reduce on-site water use.

 Harvest rainwater for mixing and curing at construction sites.
 Adopt dust suppression mats and non-water-based dust controls.

9. Electronics and Semiconductor Industry

 Install ultra-pure water recycling systems for chip cleaning.

 Reduce the number of rinse cycles through process optimization.
 Switch to dry etching and cleaning methods where feasible.

10. Leather and Tanning Industry

 Adopt waterless tanning methods (e.g., dry chrome tanning).

 Use batch processing to reduce rinse water usage.
 Install biological treatment plants to recycle tanning wastewater.

 WATER CONSERVATION STRATEGIES

1) Limiting the Consumption:

Limiting water consumption is the first and most direct approach to conserving
water. It involves using only the amount necessary for a particular task and
avoiding unnecessary wastage. This strategy focuses on changing human
behaviour, adopting efficient fixtures, and raising awareness about water
scarcity.

 Installing low-flow taps, showerheads, and dual-flush toilets.

 Practicing mindful usage like turning off taps when not in use (e.g., while brushing
teeth).
 Promoting water-efficient appliances such as dishwashers and washing machines.

Example:
o Using a broom instead of a hose to clean driveways and sidewalks.
o Setting timers on irrigation systems to water gardens during cooler hours
(early morning/evening).
o Restaurants serving water only on request to avoid waste.
o In hotels, reusing towels to reduce laundry-related water use.
o Smart meters that help track and control water usage in real time.

2) Reuse:

Water reuse means using wastewater or lightly used water again for the same or a
different purpose without significant treatment. This method reduces the demand
for fresh water and promotes sustainable usage of available resources.
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Example:

o Industrial parks treating effluent water for reuse in cooling towers.

o Municipal recycling plants providing treated water for construction or public
park irrigation.
o Airports and commercial buildings recycling restroom and washroom water
for flushing.
o Housing societies installing STPs (Sewage Treatment Plants) to recycle grey
and black water.
o Aquifer recharge using treated water to replenish groundwater.

3) Recycle:

Recycling water involves treating wastewater so it can be used again safely, either
for non-potable or even potable purposes. Unlike reuse, recycling usually includes a
treatment phase to remove contaminants and make the water suitable for its next
application.

 Treated sewage water used in agriculture or landscaping.

 Recycled industrial water used for cooling systems or cleaning.
 Advanced water recycling systems used for potable reuse in some countries (e.g.,
Singapore).

Example:
In urban areas, municipal wastewater is treated in sewage treatment plants and
reused for urban landscaping, construction, or flushing toilets in large apartment
complexes.

4) Elimination of Losses:

This strategy focuses on preventing water loss throughout the distribution,

storage, and usage systems. Water is often lost due to leaky pipes, inefficient
irrigation, poor storage systems, or evaporation. Eliminating these losses
improves efficiency and reduces the need for excessive water withdrawal.

Methods to eliminate losses:

 Regularly inspecting and fixing leaks in pipelines and plumbing.

 Using drip irrigation to avoid runoff and evaporation.
 Employing covered storage tanks to reduce water loss through evaporation.

Example:
In agriculture, switching from flood irrigation to drip irrigation can reduce water
losses by up to 60%, while also improving crop yield.

 METHODS OF PREVENTING WATER POLLUTION:

1. Proper Waste Disposal
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Ensure that trash, chemicals, and non-biodegradable items are disposed of properly, either
in designated bins or through waste management services. Avoid flushing or dumping
waste into drains or water sources.

Example: Never dispose of paint, solvents, or household cleaners in the sink or toilet.

2. Reduce Use of Chemical Fertilizers and Pesticides

Overuse of chemical fertilizers and pesticides in agriculture can lead to runoff that
pollutes rivers and groundwater. Use organic alternatives or implement integrated pest
management (IPM) techniques.

Example: Planting native plants that are more resistant to pests and require fewer
chemicals.

3. Recycle and Reuse

Recycle materials such as paper, plastic, and glass, and avoid using disposable products
that can contribute to pollution. Reuse containers and items instead of throwing them
away.

Example: Reuse water bottles and plastic containers instead of purchasing new ones.

4. Reduce Plastic Use

Avoid single-use plastics such as plastic bags, bottles, and straws that often end up in
waterways, causing harm to marine life and polluting water bodies.

Example: Use reusable shopping bags and stainless steel straws instead of plastic
versions.

5. Proper Sewage and Wastewater Management

Ensure that sewage and wastewater are treated and disposed of properly to prevent
contamination of water sources. Advocate for improved sanitation infrastructure in
communities.

Example: Install septic tanks that are regularly cleaned and maintained to prevent leaks
into groundwater.

6. Clean Up Oil Spills and Other Pollutants

Quickly clean up oil spills or any other pollutants in the environment to prevent them
from washing into storm drains and eventually reaching water sources.

Example: In case of a small oil spill, use absorbent materials like sand or sawdust to
soak it up before it spreads.
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7. Control Erosion

Soil erosion leads to sedimentation in water bodies, which affects water quality and
aquatic life. Use soil erosion control methods like vegetative cover, mulching, and
terracing to prevent soil from being washed away.

Example: Use ground cover plants on slopes or hillsides to prevent erosion.

8. Conserve Water

Use water efficiently to reduce the need for excessive extraction from natural water
sources. This also helps reduce the amount of wastewater that needs to be treated.

Example: Install low-flow faucets and toilets to minimize water wastage in homes.

9. Monitor and Prevent Stormwater Runoff

Implement practices to capture and clean stormwater before it enters rivers or lakes. Rain
gardens, permeable pavements, and retention ponds help filter pollutants out of
rainwater runoff.

Example: In urban areas, install rainwater barrels to collect runoff and use it for
gardening.

10. Educate the Public

Raise awareness in your community about the importance of preventing water pollution.
Support local initiatives that aim to protect water bodies and encourage sustainable water
practices.

Example: Organize local workshops or campaigns to educate citizens about reducing

plastic waste and preventing water contamination.

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